‘Threatened, starved, raped’ – Amnesty details horror of abducted 37 worshippers held five months in Southern Kaduna

Amnesty International has expressed deep concern that 37 people abducted during Easter Sunday church services remain in captivity five months later, calling it another example of the Nigerian government’s “utter failure to protect the people.”

According to the human rights group, the victims were taken in raids on churches in Ariko community, Kachia LGA, Southern Kaduna on April 5.

“Amnesty International is deeply concerned that the 37 people abducted in raids on churches during Easter Sunday worship on 5 April 2026 are still in captivity.

“The incident which happened in Ariko community of Kachia LGA southern Kaduna state is just one of many instances of the utter failure of Nigerian authorities to protect the people,” the group said in a statement published on Sunday night.

Amnesty said three of the 11 people abducted from Awon community have died in captivity this week.

“A woman, Joy Samuel died on 28 August, after giving birth in a deplorable condition. The baby she delivered also died.

“Mr. Yusuf Bawa, 34, and his 5-year-old son have also died as a result of severe illness and hunger,” the statement reads in part.

According to Amnesty, “Deaths and severe illness these people are facing in captivity show the atrocities they are being subjected to.”

The organisation said those still held are facing horrific conditions.

“While in captivity, the abducted persons are always repeatedly threatened to be killed, starved, women and girls raped, beaten and dehumanised in so many ways,” the statement further reads.

Amnesty noted that the abductions are part of a wider pattern of violence in the area.

“Recurring attacks, abductions for ransom, and killings are continuing to make life a hell in many parts of southern Kaduna.

“A climate of fear is affecting agricultural activities, education and other aspects of social lives of the people,” it said.

The rights group called on Nigerian authorities to act urgently.

“The Nigerian government must deliver on its national and international human rights obligations by immediately redoubling efforts to ensure the safe release and return of not only the 37 worshippers abducted in Kachia LGA, but also all people held captive by gunmen across Nigeria,” Amnesty said.