Kaduna State Government has dismissed a report ranking the state among the highest in kidnapping incidents nationwide, describing it as “false, mischievous and irresponsible.”
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Information and signed by the Commissioner-Designate, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki faulted a report attributed to SB Morgen which alleged that 629 persons were abducted in Kaduna between July 2024 and June 2025.
“The attention of the Kaduna State Government has been drawn to recent reports and commentaries regarding the security situation in the state. The publication by SB Morgen alleging that 629 persons were abducted within the period is false and mischievous,” the statement said.
The statement challenged the Morgen report describing it as a figment of false imagination of its authors orchestrated to discredit the Kaduna Peace Model adjudged as a successful model by all security agencies and critical stakeholders in the country including international organizations.
“It is on record that the Kaduna Peace Model envisioned by Governor Uba Sani had led the successful return of peace and security to all security flashpoints in the state and the recovery of over 500,000 hectares of arable land across communities previously deserted. Today, farmers in these areas have returned to the farms, and the livestock markets in Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas shutdown for over a decade reopened, thereby boosting the economic fortunes of the people.”
The government, therefore, urged citizens to disregard the ranking, stressing that it does not reflect the current security reality in the state. It also cautioned against sensational publications, which, it said, “risk undermining the morale of security personnel working tirelessly to protect our communities.”
While reassuring residents of its commitment to peace and security, the government emphasized that its multi-pronged strategy combines robust security operations with community engagement, socio-economic empowerment, and youth development to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity.
The statement also quoted the Honourable Commissioner, Internal security and Home Affairs, Dr Suleiman Shuiabu (SAN) noting that in April alone, 34 operations carried out by security agencies led to the arrest of 54 high-profile suspects and the rescue of more than 75 kidnap victims.
The Internal Security Commissioner further added that several criminal hideouts have been dismantled, with prosecutions ongoing to ensure justice.
“The Uba Sani-led administration also pointed to its non-kinetic approach, including the establishment of the Kaduna Peace Dialogue Group, which provides a platform for negotiation and reintegration of repentant bandits who have surrendered their weapons.” Dr Shuaibu added.
“The reopening of the Kara livestock market in Birnin Gwari, and the Giwa market closed for over 10 years due to insecurity and increased agricultural yields are major milestone achievements of the Kaduna Peace Model.”
“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain paramount. We therefore call on the public to disregard the purported kidnapping ranking, and focus in fostering vigilance, resilience, security, and sustainable peace in our dear state,” the statement concluded.
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