RELIEF IN KADUNA AS 80 ABDUCTED WORSHIPPERS EMERGE AFTER WEEKS IN HIDING

Eighty worshippers who escaped abduction during a bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes, nearly two weeks after the incident.

However, dozens of others remain in captivity as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the abducted victims.

The village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Danazumi, said the returnees fled when armed bandits invaded the community during a church service on January 18, 2026, abducting several worshippers and forcing others to escape into surrounding areas for safety.

According to him, the 80 worshippers returned home in good health, while 86 others are still being held by the kidnappers.

Security sources attributed the return of the displaced residents to sustained military operations targeting bandit hideouts across Kajuru and adjoining forest corridors.

Confirming the development, the spokesman of the Kaduna State Police Command, Mansir Hassan, said the Divisional Police Officer of Kajuru visited the community, where the returnees were seen, profiled, and debriefed by the police.

The attack had sparked outrage after gunmen stormed three churches in the area last month, abducting over 100 worshippers. The incident was initially denied by authorities following its disclosure by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State.

However, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, later confirmed that the attack did occur.

Governor Uba Sani subsequently visited Kurmin Wali community, assuring residents of the government’s commitment to the safe return of all abducted persons.

He said the people of Kurmin Wali, like other communities in the state, have confidence in the government’s inclusive approach, stressing that the administration is committed to protecting lives irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation.

US authorities and other pressure groups have also urged the government and security agencies to ensure the safe rescue and return of the remaining kidnapped worshippers.