Joy and relief have swept through communities in Kaduna State after six schoolchildren, their driver, and two other abductees regained their freedom following 36 days in captivity.
The victims were kidnapped on April 26, 2026, when suspected bandits attacked a vehicle transporting schoolchildren along the Akwando-Kachia Road in Kachia Local Government Area. Nine people were taken away during the attack, while a young girl reportedly lost her life in the tragic incident.
Confirming the development, the spokesman of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), Manasseh Samuel, said the victims returned home on Sunday after a difficult journey through the bush.
According to Samuel, the freed captives trekked for approximately six hours before reaching safety. He thanked community members, religious groups, and supporters who stood by the families throughout the period of uncertainty.
The release was also confirmed by Reuben Buhari, a former media aide to the late Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa. Sharing the news on Facebook, Buhari disclosed that the victims regained their freedom on Sunday and arrived home the following morning after making the long trek from their place of captivity.
“Thirty-six days after they were kidnapped while on their way to school in Kachia from Akwando village, six schoolchildren, the driver of the vehicle and two other adults regained their freedom yesterday and got home this morning after trekking for six hours in the bush,” Buhari stated.
He also expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed through prayers, support, and other efforts that helped secure the release of the victims.
While celebrating their return, Buhari noted that the children had endured a traumatic experience and missed nearly an entire academic term during their captivity. He, however, expressed gratitude that they returned alive despite the challenges they faced.
The incident once again highlights the persistent security concerns affecting communities in Kaduna State and other parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have continued to disrupt education, livelihoods, and daily life.
Buhari further called for prayers and support for other victims who remain in captivity. He specifically mentioned residents abducted from Awon and Ariko villages, noting that those kidnapped from Awon have spent 42 days in captivity, while victims from Ariko have been held for 57 days.
As families celebrate the safe return of the nine victims, attention is now shifting to ongoing efforts to secure the release of others still being held by criminal groups across the region.
