News
Reps Move To Rescue 28 Abducted Travellers In Plateau As Terrorists Demand N42m Ransom
The call followed a motion raised during Tuesday’s plenary by Ahmed Idris Wase, who drew lawmakers’ attention to the worsening security situation
Abuja, Nigeria– The House of Representatives has urged Nigeria’s security agencies to immediately rescue 28 travellers, including 25 children, abducted by suspected bandits in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The call followed a motion raised during Tuesday’s plenary by Ahmed Idris Wase, who drew lawmakers’ attention to the worsening security situation in the area and the plight of the abducted victims.
According to the motion, the victims — 25 children, a teacher and a tricycle (Keke Napep) rider — were kidnapped along the Zak–Sabon-Layin Gaji road in Bashar District while travelling to attend a Maulud celebration in Sabon-Layin Gaji village.
Wase recalled that the incident occurred on Sunday, December 21, when armed bandits reportedly ambushed the group and whisked them away into the bush, abandoning the tricycle and the children’s footwear at the scene.
He warned that the dense forest surrounding the area poses a major challenge to conventional security patrols, making surveillance and rescue operations difficult, and stressed the need for urgent, coordinated action to save the victims.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to urge relevant security agencies to intensify efforts and ensure the immediate and safe rescue of the abducted travellers.
Meanwhile, the kidnappers have reportedly contacted the families of the victims, demanding a ransom of N1.5 million per person, amounting to a total of N42 million.
A relative of one of the victims, Ibrahim Musa, told Daily Trust that the abductors reached out to the families on Tuesday night with the demand.
“The kidnappers called me last night and said we must pay N1.5 million for each person, regardless of age or gender. But they assured us that our people are in good hands and nothing will happen to them,” Musa said.
The Plateau State Police Command had earlier confirmed the abduction, noting that investigations and rescue efforts were already underway.
Chairman of Wase Local Government Area, Muhammed Hamisu, also disclosed that helicopters and soldiers have been deployed to track down the kidnappers and locate the victims.
“By the special grace of God, they will be rescued,” Hamisu said.