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Families of more than 1,000 abducted Nigerians are facing growing despair as their loved ones remain in captivity across different parts of the country, with kidnappers reportedly going completely silent. The victims, many of whom are women and children, were taken during coordinated attacks in the first quarter of 2026 across states such as Kwara, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna. Unlike previous kidnapping cases where abductors quickly demanded ransom, many families say they have received no calls, no messages, and no proof of life. 
The silence has deepened emotional trauma among relatives, who say the uncertainty is more painful than even ransom negotiations. In some communities, such as Woro in Kwara State where over 170 residents were abducted in a single attack, families report that more than 50 days have passed without any contact from the kidnappers. Victims were earlier seen in a viral video, but since then, communication has completely stopped, leaving families unsure whether their loved ones are alive or dead. 
Relatives described the situation as psychological torture, with many saying they now pray for kidnappers to reach out just to confirm that victims are still alive. Concerns are particularly high for vulnerable captives, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly, who may not survive prolonged captivity without food, medication, or proper care. Community leaders warn that as time passes without contact, the chances of survival continue to diminish. 
The crisis reflects a broader and worsening insecurity trend in Nigeria, where mass abductions have become increasingly frequent. Analysts describe the current pattern as “silent captivity,” a shift from ransom-driven kidnappings to prolonged detention without communication. With many victims still unaccounted for and families left in anguish, pressure is mounting on authorities to intensify rescue operations and address the growing kidnapping crisis nationwide. 
