A woman and her three daughters abducted by bandits in Kaduna State have regained their freedom after spending 180 days in captivity, while several other victims remain in the kidnappers’ custody.
According to information shared by the state’s former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Reuben Buhari, the woman emerged from captivity with her daughters after spending about six months in the kidnappers’ camp
Buhari disclosed that several other captives remain in the custody of the kidnappers, with concerns growing over their deteriorating condition, adding that the woman, who was pregnant when she was abducted in Ariyo Community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, gave birth while in captivity under extremely difficult conditions.
He recalled that the newborn survived for only three weeks before dying in the camp.
“She was pregnant when she was kidnapped with her daughters.
“After 180 days in captivity, she finally regained her freedom with the three girls who survived the ordeal,” Buhari stated.
He further revealed that one of the daughters, four-year-old Christy, became critically ill before the family was released, suffering severe swelling in her legs and eyes and losing the ability to walk.
According to him, the exhausted mother and her older daughters took turns carrying the sick child while trekking barefoot through the bush after their release.
“The family kept moving despite their weakness. They carried Christy on their backs, changing hands whenever one became too tired to continue,” Buhari said.
However, the journey ended in tragedy after Christy reportedly died while they were still making their way to safety.
Despite the devastating loss, the grieving family continued carrying the child’s body until they reached a village, where residents rescued them and arranged medical attention.
Buhari said the survivors are currently receiving treatment to regain their strength before being reunited with their family.
He also appealed for continued prayers and support for other victims still being held by the kidnappers.
“Many of those still in captivity are in very poor condition. We remain hopeful they will also regain their freedom soon,” he added.