Pregnant woman gives birth in bandits' camp after abduction in Kaduna, ₦77 million ransom paid

Mrs. Love Marcus, a resident of Gidan Waya community in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was abducted while heavily pregnant. Her husband was killed during the attack. She was held captive and subjected to harsh conditions, eventually giving birth in the bandits' camp. A ransom of approximately ₦77 million was paid for her release. This account was shared during a victims’ support and trauma counseling program in Kaduna, organized by the Christian Awareness Initiative of Nigeria in partnership with Palace Alliance. The program aimed to provide emotional and spiritual support to survivors of kidnapping and violent attacks. Rev. Fr. Yakubu Jerry of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan recounted Mrs. Marcus's ordeal, including the difficult march into the forest and the repeated beatings she endured. Two other abducted individuals reportedly died in captivity. After her release, Mrs. Marcus received medical and psychological support, but continues to suffer severe emotional trauma, particularly from the loss of her husband and the circumstances of her child's birth. Rev. Joseph Hayab, Executive Director of the Christian Awareness Initiative of Nigeria, emphasized the need for political will and community cooperation to address insecurity in Nigeria, noting the program's goal to help victims heal and share experiences. Kaduna State continues to be significantly affected by banditry and kidnapping.