Bauchi, Nigeria – March 11, 2026
In a shocking incident that has left communities in northern Nigeria reeling, armed bandits abducted 16 people, including a bride and members of her wedding convoy, in Bauchi State, demanding nearly N25 million before granting their release.
The abduction occurred on January 10, 2026, during a wedding ceremony for the family of Malam Abubakar Santuraki Ubandoman Lim in Gwammadaji town, Dull B Ward of Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area (LGA). The victims were en route to Dogo Yeli in Bachama Ward, Karim Lamido LGA of Taraba State, when armed men ambushed the convoy.
Among the kidnapped were the bride, her bridal escort, and friends of the groom, all from the communities of Gwammadaji, Wurno, and Burga in Tafawa Balewa LGA.
According to a statement issued on March 8 by Bakiru Hassan Maga Takadda, representing the Gwammadaji Community Development Association, the victims spent 57 harrowing days in captivity, leaving families and the community in deep distress and fear.
“The entire community lived in anxiety and uncertainty for nearly two months, praying for the safe return of the victims,” the statement said.
The association said the community eventually mobilized funds from relatives, neighbors, and well-wishers to meet the kidnappers’ demand of nearly N25 million, a financial burden that weighed heavily on affected families.
Alarmingly, the statement highlighted the lack of support from government and security authorities. “No official visit or intervention was recorded from political leaders, security personnel, or government representatives during this period,” the association lamented.
Despite the absence of government aid, the community received solidarity from individuals, religious leaders, and community organizations across Nigeria.
The association warned that continued neglect of rural communities and insecurity along major highways could embolden criminal gangs operating in the region, urging authorities to strengthen protection for travelers.
This incident follows a renewed wave of violence in Bauchi State. In February, bandits attacked Belen Lafiya in Pali District of Alkaleri LGA, killing one resident and abducting several others. A security alert from Bakatsine described the attacks as part of an escalating trend of banditry across northern Nigeria.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on security efforts to protect vulnerable communities in Bauchi State.
