Zamfara horror: 35 villagers executed after ransom paid

DDM News

Zamfara State is in mourning once again after the heart-wrenching killing of 35 kidnapped villagers by armed bandits, despite the payment of ₦50 million in ransom.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the victims were part of a group of 53 villagers abducted months ago from Banga village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

The village, already plagued by insecurity and fear, was thrown into deeper grief after news broke that only 18 captives were released.

According to Lawali Muhammad Banga, a resident of the area, the abductors had initially demanded ₦1 million per hostage, an amount far beyond what villagers could afford.

Driven by desperation and love for their missing relatives, community members pulled together limited resources through fundraising, appeals, and even the sale of farmlands.

Eventually, they raised ₦50 million, which they believed would secure the freedom of all those abducted.

The ransom was delivered to the bandits in good faith, with the community hopeful that peace would follow.

Instead, they were met with betrayal and bloodshed.

Upon release, the 18 survivors recounted chilling tales of how the remaining 35 abductees were executed one by one in front of them.

The freed victims said their captors mocked the community’s efforts, showing no intention of keeping their side of the deal.

Their horrifying testimonies have left Banga village devastated and surrounded by a thick cloud of sorrow.

“All we want now is to live in peace,” said Lawali, his voice breaking.

He described the current situation as one of hopelessness, fear, and abandonment by the government.

Lawali added that Banga and its surrounding villages are now effectively under the control of the gunmen.

According to him, attacks are now so frequent that nearby settlements have been abandoned.

He described the bandits as lawless, godless men who unleash violence without provocation.

Women are reportedly targeted for sexual abuse, while men are routinely executed or used for extortion.

The village elder made a desperate plea to the Federal Government and Zamfara State authorities to intervene immediately.

He warned that if urgent action is not taken, more lives will be lost and more communities will fall into the hands of armed militias.

Residents are calling for military presence, food aid, and psychological support for survivors and grieving families.

So far, there has been no official government statement in response to the killings.

Zamfara, which has long battled armed banditry, continues to be one of the most volatile states in northern Nigeria.

With every massacre, hope fades further for communities already pushed to the edge of collapse.

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