Amnesty International has raised the alarm over the continued captivity of 37 Christian worshippers abducted by gunmen during Easter celebrations in Southern Kaduna.
The victims were kidnapped on April 5, 2026, when armed men attacked churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The human rights organisation said the worshippers had spent 212 days in captivity, calling on the Nigerian government to take urgent steps to secure their release.
Amnesty International also disclosed that some people abducted from Awon community had died while in the custody of the gunmen.
Among the victims was Joy Samuel, who reportedly died on August 28 after giving birth under terrible conditions. Her newborn baby also died. A 34-year-old man, Yusuf Bawa, and his five-year-old son were also reported dead after suffering from severe illness and hunger.
The organisation said abducted victims were repeatedly threatened with death, denied food, beaten and subjected to degrading treatment. It also expressed concern over reports that women and girls in captivity were being sexually abused.
Amnesty International warned that persistent attacks, killings and kidnappings across Southern Kaduna had created widespread fear, disrupting farming, education and other daily activities.
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The organisation noted that many residents were struggling to access their farms and carry out normal activities because of the insecurity in their communities.
It called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the immediate and safe release of the 37 worshippers and other people held captive by armed groups across Nigeria.
Amnesty International further urged the authorities to protect vulnerable communities, prevent fresh attacks and ensure that those responsible for killings, abductions and other human rights abuses are brought to justice.
The 37 worshippers remain in captivity as their families continue to await their safe return.
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