180 days in captivity: Kaduna Mother, Three Daughters Escape Abductors’ Den

A woman abducted from Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State has finally regained her freedom after spending about six months in captivity with her three daughters, following a daring escape from their kidnappers’ hideout.

The survivor, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, was heavily pregnant when she was abducted alongside her daughters, aged 12, six and four, during an attack on the community about 180 days ago.

Their ordeal, however, did not end with their escape.

According to a statement issued on Monday by security analyst and former Kaduna State governorship aide, Reuben Buhari, the woman gave birth while in captivity, but the baby died barely three weeks later due to the harsh conditions in the kidnappers’ camp.

Determined to regain their freedom, the woman and her daughters fled the camp on Saturday, embarking on a gruelling journey through thick forest despite being severely weakened by months of hardship.

Buhari disclosed that the family’s youngest child, four-year-old Christy, fell ill during the escape.

Her exhausted mother initially carried the little girl on her back, but when she could no longer continue, the burden was taken over by Christy’s 12-year-old sister as the family struggled to reach safety.

The family reportedly trekked until nightfall before spending the night in the bush. They resumed their journey the following morning in the hope of finding help.

Sadly, Christy did not survive the exhausting trek and died before they reached safety, turning what should have been a joyful escape into another heartbreaking tragedy for the family.

The grieving mother and her two surviving daughters eventually arrived at a community in Kachia Local Government Area on Sunday, where compassionate residents came to their aid, provided immediate assistance and arranged medical treatment. They are expected to be transferred to Kaduna for further care.

Buhari said the woman and her daughters were among several residents abducted from Ariko village and neighbouring communities during separate attacks months ago.

He revealed that at least 33 other victims from Ariko, including 11 residents reportedly abducted from nearby Awon village, remain in captivity.

The security analyst appealed to the authorities and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue those still being held, expressing deep concern over the deteriorating welfare and safety of the remaining captives.