Armed men have kidnapped 28 people traveling to an annual Islamic event in Nigeria's central Plateau state, local police reported. The victims were ambushed on their bus on Sunday night while traveling between villages. Police spokesperson Alabo Alfred stated that authorities have deployed assets to the area in hopes of ensuring the captives' safe return.
News of the abductions surfaced just a day after the Nigerian government confirmed the release of 130 schoolchildren and teachers from a previous mass kidnapping incident in Niger state last month.
A journalist from Plateau state revealed that families of the latest victims have begun to receive ransom demands. The police have not disclosed any information regarding the possible identity of the kidnappers.
Kidnappings for ransom perpetrated by criminal gangs, locally referred to as bandits, have surged in northern and central Nigeria. Despite the illegality of ransom payments, many families feel compelled to negotiate with abductors to secure the release of their loved ones.
This incident is distinct from the long-standing Islamist insurgency in northeastern Nigeria, where jihadist groups have been in conflict with the state for over a decade. The prevalence of insecurity in Nigeria has drawn renewed international attention, especially following statements from US President Donald Trump suggesting military intervention due to alleged targeting of Christians. The Nigerian government refuted claims of religious persecution.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris announced on Monday that tensions with the US over security issues have been largely resolved, which he claims will enhance relations with Washington. He also mentioned plans to deploy trained forest guards to secure forests and remote areas exploited by criminal organizations.
Additional reporting by Abayomi Adisa and BBC Monitoring
