A 13-year-old Christian girl, identified as Hasana Bulus, has died just two days after being released from more than six months of captivity in southern Kaduna State, Nigeria. According to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), Hasana was among 11 people abducted by heavily armed men from Awon village in Kachia Local Government Area on April 20, 2026. She was reportedly released on November 1 but died in hospital on November 3 after falling critically ill during her time in captivity.
Reports indicate that Hasana was among five survivors released alongside four other women and girls. Their release reportedly followed the payment of a ransom involving three motorcycles, each costing more than ₦2 million, alongside recharge cards and drinks. However, the ordeal had already claimed several lives. CSW reported that five of the original abductees died while in captivity, including all the male hostages. The report also stated that a newborn baby belonging to one of the female captives died during the period of their imprisonment.
The incident has renewed concerns over the growing insecurity affecting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in southern Kaduna. CSW has called on Nigerian authorities at both state and federal levels to strengthen security operations, protect communities and secure the release of those still being held by armed groups. The organisation also expressed condolences to Hasana’s family and the families of other victims, urging the government to address the persistent attacks, abductions and killings affecting communities across the region.
