Families of kidnapped victims across Nigeria say they are trapped in a deepening crisis of uncertainty as hundreds of abductees — many of them women and children — remain in captivity without any contact from their captors.
At least 1,000 people abducted in coordinated attacks during the first quarter of 2026 are still being held in remote camps, according to findings by Nigerian Mirror. The kidnappings span multiple regions, from Kwara in the country’s north-central zone to conflict-hit Borno in the northeast and volatile areas of Niger and southern Kaduna.
Relatives say a troubling shift has emerged: unlike previous cases where kidnappers quickly demanded ransom, many groups are now remaining silent.
Silence deepens anguish
In Woro, a community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, 176 residents — mostly women and children — were abducted in early February. More than 50 days later, families say they have received no communication, despite a viral video showing the victims in captivity.
“We are not sleeping,” said Abubakar Umar, who has several relatives among the abducted. “At least if they call, we will know they are alive. But now, nothing.”
Another resident, Ajike Ajiboye, described the silence as “worse than mourning,” saying families now find themselves praying for kidnappers to make contact.
Community leaders warn that the chances of survival may be diminishing, especially for vulnerable captives such as pregnant women, children and the elderly.
Ransom demands elsewhere
In nearby Omugo, abductors have demanded 500 million naira (about $300,000) for the release of eight church members, reflecting a more familiar pattern of ransom-driven kidnappings.
Residents across affected communities say they feel abandoned by authorities, citing limited updates and slow response efforts. A coalition of civil society groups has called for urgent rescue operations and stronger security presence.
Hundreds still missing in Borno
In northeastern Borno State, more than 300 residents abducted from Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area during a March attack remain unaccounted for.
Some women have returned in recent weeks, but many others — including children — are still missing. Those who returned reportedly came back without mobile phones and provided little information about their captivity.
“We have no information. No calls, no contact,” one relative said. “We only pray and wait.”
State officials say they have yet to establish communication with the attackers.
Prolonged captivity in Niger
In Niger State, some victims have been held for nearly a year. Dozens were abducted in multiple attacks across Mariga, Munya and Shiroro areas, with more than 40 people taken in a recent Easter attack.
Families say partial ransom payments have not secured releases, with kidnappers demanding full sums before freeing captives. Some victims are believed to have died in captivity and were buried without their families’ knowledge.
“We don’t even know whether he is alive or dead,” said a relative of one victim abducted in September 2025.
Southern Kaduna and Zamfara affected
In southern Kaduna, residents report a similar pattern of delayed or nonexistent communication from kidnappers, complicating efforts to negotiate releases.
Meanwhile, in northwestern Zamfara State, at least 597 people have been abducted between January and April, according to local reports. Many remain in captivity despite ransom payments.
Lasting toll on families
Beyond those held captive, the crisis is reshaping entire communities. Children are dropping out of school, families are facing financial collapse, and relatives are caring for abandoned dependents.
“We now have children growing up without parents, not because they died, but because they are missing,” said a community leader in Kaduna.
Analysts warn that the lack of communication from kidnappers makes rescue operations more difficult and increases risks for victims.
In a video circulated online, suspected militants claimed responsibility for the Woro abduction and said they had converted the captives to Islam. One female hostage in the footage appealed for help, citing the presence of small children and pregnant women.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to rescue victims and dismantle kidnapping networks, but for many families, the wait continues — with little information and dwindling hope.
