Kaduna State dismisses kidnap report as false

Kaduna State kidnap report dismissed by the government as false and mischievous, citing major security improvements under Governor Uba Sani

Kaduna State kidnap report has been firmly rejected by the state government, which labeled it as false, mischievous and irresponsible.

Also read: Kaduna vote-buying arrest: police seize ₦25.9m cash

The administration of Governor Uba Sani insists the state has seen marked security improvements, contradicting a recent ranking that placed Kaduna among the worst-hit by kidnapping in Nigeria.

The controversial report, attributed to Lagos-based SB Morgen, claimed that 629 persons were abducted in Kaduna between July 2024 and June 2025.

It positioned the state near the top of Nigeria’s kidnapping hot zones, sparking concern and headlines nationwide.

In response, a statement released Thursday by the Ministry of Information, signed by Commissioner-Designate Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, strongly refuted the data.

According to Maiyaki, the Kaduna State Kidnap Report is a fabrication designed to discredit the success of the Kaduna Peace Model, which he says has been widely acknowledged by security agencies and stakeholders.

“The publication is not only inaccurate but seems orchestrated to undermine our progress. Communities have returned to life. Farmlands and markets are active again,” said Maiyaki.

The government detailed substantial improvements, including the recovery of over 500,000 hectares of arable land and the reopening of key livestock markets in Birnin Gwari and Giwa that were previously shut down for over a decade due to insecurity.

These developments have revitalized local economies and restored rural livelihoods.

Dr. Suleiman Shuaibu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, highlighted that in April alone, 34 operations led to the arrest of 54 suspects and the rescue of 75 victims.

He added that several criminal hideouts were dismantled, and court proceedings are underway.

The Kaduna Peace Dialogue Group, a non-kinetic initiative aimed at reintegrating repentant bandits, has also been key to the state’s strategy.

By combining military operations with community engagement, economic empowerment, and youth development, the administration seeks long-term stability.

The government advised the public and media to disregard the Kaduna State Kidnap Report and instead focus on promoting security and unity.

Also read: Kaduna hotelier, Victor Balogun arrested for threatening journalist after police raid report gains traction

“We urge stakeholders to be responsible with their narratives. Sensationalism only emboldens criminals,” the statement added.

David Okere