.Faces of those who are in captivity for weeks now
* Seeks FG intervention
The people of Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State have been plunged into grief and despair following persistent bandit attacks, official negligence, and worsening insecurity in Bunu land.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by David Amupitan and made available to Journalists on Saturday in Lokoja.
The statement lamented that scores of residents were abducted by bandits and even painful ransom payment raised through communal contributions, only seven victims were released.
Amupitan who is the spokesperson of the community said three of the released victims died on arrival, while four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at medical facilities.
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He added that about thirty others are still held in the kidnappers den, raising fears of their safety.
He said, the tragic development underscores the complete failure of security governance in the area.alleging that the government at the local council has turned against the innocent people, who were on peaceful protest to draw attention of the world to their plights.
According to the statement, ” the officials if Kabba Bunu Local Government council and security agencies instead of protecting the vulnerable communities ,allegedly responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters who were merely demanding safety, justice, and the rescue of their loved ones.
“It is both ironic and unacceptable that a government entrusted with the protection of lives and property would criminalize peaceful protest, while allowing bandits to roam freely, killing, kidnapping, and terrorizing law-abiding citizens.
“Our people are tired of burying loved ones, tired of selling properties and contributing scarce resources to pay ransom, and tired of living under perpetual fear while those in authority remain indifferent.
“We hereby urgently appeal, to the Federal Government of Nigeria, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intervene decisively in Ayetoro-Kiri and the entire Bunu district. Immediate action must be taken to rescue those still in captivity, restore security, and hold accountable all officials who enable or ignore this humanitarian tragedy” He demanded.
