Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has expressed deep concern over a viral video that shows a suspected bandit threatening a kidnapped family in Kaduna State. The video, which has drawn widespread attention, features a gunman demanding a ransom of N300 million from the family, which includes a mother, father, and their infant child.

The family was reportedly abducted on October 5, 2026, when armed bandits invaded Alrahus Estate in Millennium City, Kaduna State. Sani described the situation as both tragic and condemnable, emphasizing that the exploitation of kidnapping for political gain is becoming increasingly common.

In a statement shared on his X account, Sani recalled previous mass kidnappings in the region, including the notorious abductions of students from Greenfield University, the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, and Bethel Baptist High School. He noted that such incidents have left a lasting impact on the community and raised questions about the motives behind the current wave of kidnappings.

Sani stated, "The viral video of a ‘bandit’ pointing a gun at a kidnapped Kaduna mother, father and a small baby is tragic, unfortunate and condemnable." He further expressed concern that the banditry is being weaponized for political purposes, suggesting that these acts are designed to provoke public outrage and garner sympathy to influence political support.

The former senator highlighted the alarming trend of banditry being factored into political strategies, asserting, "It’s easier to defeat banditry than overcome politically induced banditry." He called on security agencies to intensify their efforts to secure the release of the hostages, while acknowledging improvements in security in the state due to government initiatives.

Sani's comments reflect a growing anxiety among residents of Kaduna State regarding the intersection of crime and politics, as well as the safety of families in the region. His plea for action from security forces underscores the urgent need for effective measures to combat the rising tide of kidnappings and restore peace in the area.