A disturbing series of reports have emerged across Nigeria linking a fringe religious group to the abduction and psychological manipulation of young women. A Nigerian mother from Abuja has come forward, publicly pleading for answers after her daughter mysteriously disappeared earlier this year—allegedly after coming into contact with the group.
According to the mother, who has chosen to remain anonymous for safety reasons, her 22-year-old daughter was introduced to the group by a friend. After several visits, the young woman abruptly severed all contact with her family. Attempts to trace her whereabouts have been unsuccessful. “She was full of life and dreams. Now, she’s vanished. I believe they’ve taken her from us,” the mother said tearfully in an emotional appeal.
Human rights organizations and local advocacy groups report a growing number of similar cases in Lagos, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt. Several families have described nearly identical patterns: initial involvement in a seemingly spiritual group, followed by isolation, erratic communication, and then total disappearance.
Sources suggest that the group may be operating under the guise of a religious or healing ministry, using manipulative tactics to recruit and indoctrinate vulnerable individuals. There are growing concerns that members are being held against their will or coerced through psychological means.
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed an ongoing investigation into the allegations. “We are treating these reports seriously and are working with affected families and community leaders to locate the missing individuals and hold those responsible accountable,” a spokesperson said.
Women’s rights groups are urging the government to strengthen oversight of unregistered religious organizations and implement better safeguards to prevent cult-like activities. They are also calling for increased support services for families affected by such disappearances.