Abducted Kaduna Schoolchildren, Driver Regain Freedom After 36 Days in Captivity

Nine persons, including six schoolchildren, a driver, and two other passengers abducted along the Akwando–Kachia Road in Kaduna State, have regained their freedom after spending 36 days in captivity.

The victims were kidnapped on April 26, 2026, when armed assailants attacked a vehicle transporting pupils from Akwando village to Kachia, the headquarters of Kachia Local Government Area. During the attack, nine occupants of the vehicle were taken away, while a young girl was reportedly killed.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), Manasseh Samuel, said the victims returned safely on Sunday after trekking for several hours through the bush following their release.

Samuel expressed appreciation to individuals, community members, and religious groups whose support and prayers contributed to the victims’ safe return.

The release was also confirmed by Reuben Buhari, a former media aide to the late Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa. He disclosed that the victims arrived home after enduring a lengthy trek through remote terrain.

According to him, the children endured a difficult ordeal during their captivity, missing a substantial part of the academic term before eventually regaining their freedom.

While celebrating the release of the victims, Buhari called for continued support and prayers for other residents still being held by kidnappers in different communities across the area.

He noted that several victims abducted from Awon and Ariko villages remain in captivity, with some having spent more than six weeks in the hands of their captors.

Security authorities are yet to provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the victims’ release.