A family’s nightmare finally ends, but not without a heartbreaking loss
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In what can only be described as a bittersweet reunion, a Kaduna-based pastor, Reverend Andrew Duniya, his wife, Mrs. Jemimah Andrew, and their daughter have finally regained their freedom after spending a harrowing five months in the hands of bandits.
The family was abducted when armed bandits invaded Gidan Ali community, turning what should have been an ordinary day into the beginning of a living nightmare that would stretch across nearly half a year.
Freedom At Last — But At a Great Cost
While the news of their release is undoubtedly a reason for thanksgiving in the body of Christ and among Nigerians who have followed this story, the joy of their return is deeply overshadowed by tragedy. The family’s son did not make it out alive, passing away during the period of captivity.
It is the kind of story that reminds us of the painful reality facing many communities in Nigeria’s Northwest and North-Central regions — families torn apart, lives destroyed, and communities living in constant fear of the next attack.
Banditry Crisis Continues to Bleed Kaduna
Kaduna State has remained one of the epicentres of banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria. From rural farming communities to suburban neighbourhoods, no one seems completely safe. Pastors, imams, teachers, farmers — ordinary Nigerians going about their daily lives — continue to fall victim to these criminal elements who have made abduction a booming, ruthless enterprise.
For Reverend Duniya and his family, five months is not just a number. It represents five months of uncertainty, fear, hunger, and unimaginable psychological trauma. It represents a son they will never bring home.
A Call to Action
As Nigerians, we must continue to demand more from our security agencies and government officials. The release of this family, while welcome, should not be treated as a success story to sweep under the carpet. It is a reminder that the banditry crisis is far from over.
We must ask the hard questions:
– How many more families are still in captivity right now?
– What concrete steps are being taken to dismantle these criminal networks?
– When will communities like Gidan Ali be safe enough for people to sleep with two eyes closed?
Our Hearts Go Out to the Duniya Family
To Reverend Andrew, Mrs. Jemimah, and their daughter — welcome back. Your strength through this ordeal is a testimony that many will draw courage from. And to the memory of the son who did not return — may his soul rest in perfect peace.
This story is not just news. It is a mirror held up to the society we are building — and a challenge to do far better.
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Stay informed. Stay safe. And keep demanding a Nigeria where no family has to go through this.
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