Amnesty International has expressed concern over 37 worshippers abducted during Easter Sunday service in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Peoples Gazette had earlier reported that gunmen killed seven people and abducted several worshippers during attacks on First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church in the LGA on April 5.

In a statement on Tuesday, the human rights organisation said the victims had spent 212 days in captivity.

The organisation accused the Federal Government of failing to protect citizens from recurring attacks and abductions.

It stated, “More 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.” 

It said the woman’s baby also died. 

According to the organisation, Yusuf Bawa 34, and his five-year-old son also died as a result of severe illness and hunger. 

“Deaths and severe illnesses these people are facing in captivity show the atrocities they are being subjected to. 

“While in captivity, the abducted persons are always repeatedly threatened to be killed, starved, women and girls raped, beaten and dehumanized in so many ways,” it said. 

It added that recurring attacks, ransom abductions and killings continued to disrupt lives in many parts of southern Kaduna, creating a climate of fear affecting farming, education and other aspects of social life in the communities.

It urged the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the 37 worshippers abducted in Kachia and all other people held captive by armed groups across the country.

Amnesty International also called on the government to fulfill its national and international human rights obligations by protecting citizens from attacks and ensuring the safe return of those abducted.