Prayer for Nigeria: Kidnapping and Abductions

There have been repeated reports of bandits organising abductions in Kaduna state, Nigeria. Two kidnapped nurses regained freedom after 80 days. They were taken from Idon General Hospital, in Kajulu local government area of Kaduna state on 22 April, while on night duty, and released on Saturday 10 July 2021 after paying the ransom.

On 5 July 2021, mass abduction of140 school children were seized by gunmen in Kaduna state. The gunmen overpowered the school’s security guards and made their way into their hostels. A total of 26 people, including a female teacher escaped, but 121 pupils of Bethel Baptist High School remain missing. Parents had to raise money to buy bags of rice to feed the starving children held captive.

Since December 2020, more than 1000 students have been abducted till date, with the bandits targeting rural schools and colleges, where students stay in dormitories.

 In the early morning on Sunday, 11 July 2021, bandits again abducted 83-year old Emir of Kajulu (traditional ruler), Kaduna state, along with his 12 other relatives. He was later released, but a hefty ransom has been requested before the release of his relatives. No report of their release yet.

Prayer

Lord, how scary it must be for parents and carers of kidnapped victims, especially children.

Please touch the hearts of the bandits, to release their victims alive and grant courage and wisdom to the Nigerian government to provide prompt and effective security against these evil perpetrators .

May all the victims be released safely.

 May Kaduna dwellers develop bold community spirit with faith in God

to reverse the evil trend, perpetrated by the love of money

in Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Psalm 72:12-14

For he will deliver the needy who cry out,
    the afflicted who have no one to help.
 He will take pity on the weak and the needy
    and save the needy from death.
He will rescue them from oppression and violence,
    for precious is their blood in his sight.