Recent kidnappings across several states show that violent abductions are continuing despite government efforts. In Kwara, Kano, and nearby areas, families are fearful as more people are taken. This post summarises what happened, how authorities responded, and what readers can know or do.

• On Monday night into Tuesday morning, about 10 to 11 people were abducted in Isapa, near Eruku in Kwara State. Reports vary on the exact number.
• The attack involved gunfire and was described as a concerted effort by attackers moving through villages and forests.
• An Isapa incident followed a pattern seen in prior weeks, including other attacks around Eruku and in the Kwara South area.

Kano

• In Tsanyawa Local Government Area, gunmen struck in the villages of Biresawa and Tsundu, taking around 10 people.
• Residents say attackers arrived on foot, fired into homes, and overwhelmed local defences. Some victims were relatives of residents.

Nasawara (Mararaba Udege, Agboda)

• A separate incident near a church crusade in Nasarawa State reportedly left one person injured by a machete. The event ended as residents fled in fear.

• President Tinubu’s administration announced intensified security measures, including expanded air surveillance in affected forests (Kwara, Kebbi, Niger) to track bandits and rescue victims.
• Police and security agencies deployed patrols and tactical units to Isapa and other affected areas. Joint teams continued search-and-rescue operations in the surrounding bushes.
• In Kwara, security leaders stressed that the situation is being monitored closely and that ground and forest surveillance is ongoing to locate abducted residents.

• In a separate development, 24 Kebbi State schoolgirls kidnapped from a government school were released after government intervention. Authorities described this as a relief and thanked the security services for their work.
• The government underscored that no ransom has been confirmed publicly, though details remain limited.

• Some security analysts and former officers advocate for a mix of measures, including continued intelligence-driven operations and accountability for security responses.
• Several voices in opposition parties argue that negotiating with kidnappers can embolden bandits, while others emphasise that rescuing victims quickly is the priority, regardless of method.
• Calls have been made for improved equipment, better funding for police, and less political interference in security operations to sustain effective counter-kidnapping efforts.

• Local communities have tightened security and increased patrols, especially at night. Some places have scaled back evening activities as a precaution.
• Parents and community leaders are urging authorities to protect schools and farms, noting that education and livelihoods are deeply affected by ongoing insecurity.

• The security situation remains fragile in several regions. While some hostages have been freed, new abductions continue to occur, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in rural and peri-urban areas.
• Community vigilance and timely reporting to security agencies are repeatedly emphasised as vital elements in preventing and responding to attacks.