Summary: Three Qur’an memorizers from one family have been abducted by bandits in Niger State while traveling to an Islamic event. The kidnappers are demanding N8 million ransom with a four-day ultimatum.
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In yet another disturbing incident highlighting the worsening security situation in parts of Northern Nigeria, bandits have kidnapped three young Qur’an memorizers (Hafiz) belonging to the same family in Niger State.
The victims, who were on their way to attend an Islamic event in Kotonkoro, Mariga Local Government Area, were ambushed along the route by armed criminals who have now held them captive for over three weeks.
Details of the Abduction
Security analyst Bakatsine broke the news on Sunday, March 1, 2026, revealing that the three students of the Qur’an were intercepted while traveling to participate in what was supposed to be a spiritual gathering.
Instead of reaching their destination, the young scholars found themselves in the hands of ruthless kidnappers who have subjected their family to psychological torture and financial demands.
Ransom Demands and Ultimatum
The bandits are now demanding a staggering sum of N8 million for the release of the three victims. To compound the family’s agony, the criminals issued a four-day ultimatum starting from Saturday, threatening unspecified consequences if the ransom is not paid within the stipulated timeframe.
For many Nigerian families, raising such amounts within such a short period is nearly impossible, leaving them at the mercy of these heartless criminals.
Growing Insecurity in Niger State
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of kidnappings and banditry that has plagued Niger State and other parts of the North-West and North-Central regions in recent times. Travelers, farmers, students, and even worshippers have become targets of criminal gangs operating with alarming freedom.
The fact that young people dedicated to memorizing the Holy Qur’an—an endeavor highly respected in Nigerian Muslim communities—are not spared from these attacks shows the depth of the security crisis facing the nation.
Call for Action
As these three young scholars remain in captivity, there are growing calls for security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue kidnap victims and bring perpetrators to justice. Communities across Niger State and beyond are demanding better protection and a more robust response to the banditry menace.
Families are being forced to make impossible choices between paying ransoms that fund further criminal activities or risking the lives of their loved ones.
The plight of these three Qur’an students serves as yet another reminder that urgent and decisive action is needed to restore safety and security to all Nigerians, regardless of where they live or what they do.
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Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of the abducted students, and we hope for their safe and speedy return.
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