Governor Uba Sani on Wednesday visited Kurmin Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area following the abduction of worshippers by suspected bandits, assuring residents that all abductees would be safely returned. Leading a delegation of senior government officials and security chiefs, the governor said his administration was working closely with the military, the DSS, the police and the Office of the National Security Adviser to secure the victims' release. He pledged not to relent until they were brought home.
"In the last two days, we have been collaborating with the relevant security agencies, both the military, the DSS the police, and the Office of National Security Adviser, to ensure the quick return and recovery of our people that were abducted in this very important community,’’ he said.
Mr Sani stressed that the number of abducted persons was immaterial, adding that “it is the responsibility of the Kaduna State Government to protect the lives and property of the people.’’ He condemned attempts to politicise the incident, saying the focus should be on human life and dignity.
‘’We are talking about the sanctity of human life and dignity here. And that is the reason why we will go to any length, collaborating with the security agencies, to ensure the quick return of our people here in Kurmin Wali,” he added.
The governor announced that the state would pay medical bills for those injured during the attack and would liaise with the Minister of Defence to site a military base in the area, citing Kurmin Wali’s proximity to banditry hotspots. He also promised to construct an access road to the community and build a primary healthcare centre.
In a welcome address, the Agwam Kufana, Chief Dauda Titus, said he received a distress call during church service on Sunday and explained why community leaders withheld details. “We refused to comment on the incident since Sunday because we don’t know the number of those that were kidnapped,” he said, appealing for improved road access and amenities.
Also speaking, Emmanuel Tabara, National President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union, praised the governor’s visit and response. ‘’You are the first Governor to visit this community… Even in the face of conflicting information, you have initiated action for the rescue of those people who are abducted,” he said, pledging community support and prayers for the administration.
(NAN)