In March, kidnappers in northern Nigeria’s Zamfara state took 56 people from Banga village. The kidnappers, called bandits, demanded one million naira ($655) ransom for each person. After some negotiations, the ransom was paid, and 18 people were released, mostly women and one boy. Sadly, the bandits killed at least 35 of the captives, mostly young people. The local official said the killers were heartless and senseless, hurting their community. Sixteen released people are in the hospital, but the bodies of those killed are unlikely to be returned. In 2022, Nigeria made paying ransom illegal and punishable by jail, and kidnapping causing death punishable by death. But no one has been arrested under this law. Families still pay ransoms because they fear for their loved ones’ safety, as the government struggles to stop kidnappings. The kidnapping problem and violence continue to hurt many communities in Nigeria.
Pray for the effective enforcement of laws against kidnappings and violence against innocent civilians in Nigeria. Pray for the Nigerian government to implement more stringent measures to end kidnappings and to protect civilians from violent attacks (The Holy Bible, Psalm 22:20).
Pray for the LORD’s comfort for the families of the deceased victims of kidnappings in Nigeria. Pray that the kidnappers are quickly brought to justice (The Holy Bible, Psalm 72:4).
Pray for the immediate release and safe return of all the kidnapped victims in Nigeria. Pray for an improved security system in the country (The Holy Bible, Psalm 31:15).
News Source: BBC
Image Source: Canva
