Shocking Video Shows Kaduna-Bound Traveller Pleading for Help After Kidnappers Demand ₦30m Ransom

A disturbing video circulating on social media has reignited concerns over Nigeria’s escalating kidnapping crisis after a young man identified as John Arum Azi was seen pleading for help while in captivity along the Kaduna route.

The victim reportedly said he was travelling to Kaduna when armed kidnappers intercepted and abducted him alongside six other passengers, bringing the total number of victims to seven.

In the footage, which was allegedly posted on Facebook by one of his coursemates, Azi appears visibly distressed as he appeals directly to his family and the public for urgent assistance.

Sources say the video was recorded under duress using the victim’s own phone, with the abductors forcing him to deliver a message demanding ransom for his release.

The kidnappers reportedly set an initial demand of ₦30 million, warning that failure to meet their terms could result in his killing. The victim, however, is heard pleading that he and his family cannot afford the sum.

The incident once again highlights the deepening insecurity along major highways in northern Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common.

States including Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Niger, and Kogi have continued to witness repeated abductions targeting commuters, rural dwellers, and students.

Despite ongoing security operations and repeated assurances from authorities, travellers remain exposed to risks on key transport corridors, raising fresh questions about the effectiveness of current counter-kidnapping strategies.

At the time of filing this report, authorities had not issued any official statement regarding Azi’s abduction, while efforts to secure his release are yet to be confirmed.