Northern Christian youths call for community forest guard after Kaduna kidnappings

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) have urged the federal government to establish a community-based Forest Guard to protect villages following the mass abduction of worshippers in Kaduna State.

The group made the call in a statement on Thursday after gunmen attacked churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area, and kidnapped dozens of churchgoers during Sunday services.

Isaac Abrack, National Coordinator of NCYP, said the incident exposed gaps in the country’s security system and highlighted the need for local involvement in protecting communities, especially those near forests.

Abrack said a community Forest Guard, staffed by residents familiar with the terrain, could provide early warning and support security agencies in preventing attacks.

The youth group praised efforts by President Bola Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani but said more action was needed to protect vulnerable communities.

NCYP also reminded the government of its pledge to revamp the Forest Guard and said the initiative should include locals from affected areas to be effective.

The Kaduna abduction has raised concerns nationwide, with reports indicating that more than 160 worshippers were taken from multiple churches in Kurmin Wali.