The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), has called on the state and federal governments to adopt stringent measures to tackle the deteriorating security situation in Kaduna State.
The union, in a press statement on Monday, decried the rising spate of kidnappings and attacks in some parts of the state, and urged security agencies “do everything possible” to protect residents.
The statement, which was signed by the union’s spokesman, Luka Binniyat, was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Kafanchan.
It said that the situation was frightening and impeding economic growth and social activities in the area.
“Just yesterday, someone in possession of Improvised Explosive Device (IED), was arrested inside the Living Faith Church, Sabo-Tasha, Kaduna.
“This created a tense situation in Kaduna and reminded people of the bombings of Churches in times past. It also reminded residents that danger is always lurking.
“Not long ago, we called the attention of the Nigerian public to the security situation in some local governments, especially Chikun Local Government Area, and the kidnapping of many persons, including a nursing mother.
“Not long ago, four students of The Good Shepherd Major Catholic Seminary, Buwaya, Kaduna were also kidnapped.
“The wife of a philanthropist, Mrs Ataga, whose husband had built a Police post for the Unguwan Juji community in Kaduna, was also taken away, along with her three kids by kidnappers that also killed a vigilante.
“A ransom of N20 million was thereafter demanded but before the money was raised, her corpse was found on the roadside.
“Currently, the abductors are still demanding N20 million as ransom for the kids. Government and security agents should please initiate measures to secure the release of these people and others in similar situation across the country,” the statement said.
The statement also called on the state government to work toward improving the living conditions of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), quartered in several camps.
Efforts to speak with the state’s Commissioner of Internal Security, My Samuel Aruwan, proved abortive, but a top official in the ministry told NAN that government was working very hard to improve the security situation.
“Government has continued to put in drastic measures to contain the activities of criminals. We shall continue to do that so as to make Kaduna State safe for all the residents,” the official said, pleading anonymity.
