Residents of Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have cried out over the underreporting of recurring bandit attacks and kidnappings, appealing to major media organisations to draw attention to their plight.
In a statement signed by Rev. Fr. Agbo Gabriel, the residents said that in the early hours of Sunday, September 7, armed bandits invaded Wakeh village in Agunu District, killing eight people, injuring several others, and razing houses and properties.
The statement added that similar attacks have continued in Ankwa, Bishini, Katari and other villages, leaving residents displaced, traumatised and desperate.
“The poor people of Kachia town, who used to host internally displaced persons from surrounding villages, are now themselves being targeted,” Rev. Fr. Gabriel said. “Kidnappings from farms and homes are happening daily, yet media coverage remains virtually absent. We are forced to ask: where are the correspondents or reporters of major media houses in Kaduna and Kachia?”
The community appealed to Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to urgently intervene and address the security challenges, stressing Kachia’s agricultural and economic importance to the state.
They also called for stronger community-based surveillance, engagement of local leaders and collective action to protect vulnerable villages.
Rev. Fr. Gabriel further emphasised vigilance and unity among residents, urging them to report suspicious activities and support one another in defending their communities.
“Kachia is a land of great potential and does not deserve such neglect,” the statement concluded. “Media houses, we need your attention. Kachia too exists.”
