Terrorists have demanded N1 billion in ransom for the release of 37 worshippers they took from churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, during an incident on Easter Sunday.
The events unfolded on 5 April when the terrorists entered the community while people attended services at three churches, including the ECWA church, a Baptist church and St Augustine Catholic Church.
They opened fire and took the worshippers away. Five people lost their lives in the process.
Families of those taken say the terrorists later shared a video of the hostages and stated their demand.
The group explained that the operation had not gone as planned and that resistance from the community added to the cost.
They warned that they would not release anyone without the full payment.
Community leaders have spoken out about the situation.
They note that no one from the group has returned home, even though security agencies earlier reported that some people had been freed.
Residents, including Reuben Buhari, a former media aide, confirm that all 37 remain in captivity more than two weeks later.
The demand has left families in a difficult position.
Many come from farming households and find it hard to gather such a sum.
They continue to wait for any update from the authorities on possible rescue efforts or talks.
This development adds to the security challenges that southern Kaduna has faced for years, with repeated incidents affecting rural areas and places of worship.
At the time of writing, no fresh statement has come from security agencies about the ransom or next steps.
People in the community say they hope for quicker action so the hostages can return safely.
The victims include a mix of men, women, children and elderly residents who had simply gone to observe the Easter services.
