Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to secure the release of the abducted Abuja-Kaduna train passengers still in captivity since March 28.

“At least 8 people were killed and another 65 abducted on 28 March 2022 after armed bandits attacked the Abuja-Kaduna inbound train carrying more than 362 passengers. 50 days after their abduction, the Nigerian government is yet to secure their release,” Amnesty International said in a statement. 

In March, armed bandits bombed a passenger train on the Kaduna-Abuja track two days after a similar attack was made on the Kaduna International Airport, killing aviation workers and leaving many others wounded.

Eight people were killed and 65 were abducted after the train carrying more than 362 passengers was attacked. The attack exploded a section of track between the capital and Kaduna. 

“The train attack, which is the latest in a series of mass abductions and killings by armed groups attacking schools, religious centers, rural communities, and highways, signifies a brutal reign of terror and blatant disregard for human rights which must not be allowed to continue,” said Osai Ojigho, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

The Northern Governors’ Forum in a statement, described the train attack as “barbaric and horrifying”. The governors urged security forces to amp their search and rescue efforts in ensuring that those kidnapped are released without further delay.