Bandits have allegedly released the remaining worshippers abducted during a Sunday attack on churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attack occurred when armed men invaded three churches in the community during worship services, firing sporadically to instil fear before abducting worshippers and leading them into the surrounding forests.
It would be recalled that no fewer than 177 worshippers were reportedly kidnapped during the coordinated assault. However, about 80 worshippers were said to have escaped while being taken into the bush and later sought refuge in neighbouring villages.
Confirming the development in a telephone interview with Business day today, Thursday, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, said he received information early Tuesday morning that the abducted worshippers had been released.
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“I got the information of their release this morning. They are currently with the government in Kaduna,” he said, adding that he could not provide further details at the time.
When asked whether ransom or motorcycles, allegedly demanded by the bandits, were provided before the release, Dan’azumi said he could not confirm, noting that he was preparing to travel to Kaduna to meet with the victims.
Ma’aji Caleb, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State chapter, also confirmed the release in a telephone interview.
“Glory be to God, my people are out. We hope to connect with them today. This was through our prayers and the efforts of the government,” he said.
Speaking on whether ransom was paid, the CAN chairman said he was not involved in any negotiations, stressing that the most important thing was that the worshippers had regained their freedom.
He also commended the Kaduna State Government, noting that Governor Uba Sani had demonstrated commitment to protecting lives and property in the state.
Meanwhile, a senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the release on Wednesday night.
“I can confirm that the remaining worshippers have been released, but I cannot confirm the exact number,” the source said.
A community stakeholder in Kajuru, who also pleaded anonymity for security reasons, said empty buses and motorcycles were sighted late Wednesday night moving towards nearby bush areas, allegedly conveying people out.
“I believe those were the motorcycles the bandits earlier demanded, which allegedly went missing during a military operation on their camp,” the source said.
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Following the attack, security agencies were said to have launched search-and-rescue operations in the area, while local authorities and community leaders engaged efforts to account for the abducted worshippers and provide support for affected families.
The incident has again drawn attention to persistent banditry and attacks on places of worship in parts of Southern Kaduna, particularly in rural communities where residents have repeatedly complained of inadequate security presence.
Kajuru Local Government Area has remained one of the flashpoints of banditry in Kaduna State, with several communities in recent years experiencing kidnappings, attacks on religious centres and mass abductions, despite ongoing military and police operations.
Efforts to get confirmation from the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
In view of the development, the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed profound joy and relief over the safe release of all worshippers abducted in Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State.
The return of the victims marks a significant moment of grace and resolution for the Church and the entire community affected by the tragic incident.
In a statement issued today, Thursday, Northern CAN Chairman, Joseph John Hayab, hailed the decisive leadership of Governor Uba Sani, describing him as a governor who truly listens to the voice of the people, a sharp contrast to the past when citizens were often intimidated or ignored whenever such tragedies occurred.
“We rejoice with the Church and the people of Kurmin Wali for the safe return of all kidnapped victims,” Rev. Hayab said. “We specially appreciate Governor Uba Sani for showing remarkable leadership and empathy during these trying moments. He heard the cries of the people and fulfilled his promise to ensure the release of the abducted worshippers.”
Northern CAN also saluted the sacrifice and dedication of all security agencies, including the Security Service (SSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant operatives, whose tireless efforts contributed to the safe return of the victims.
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The statement further extended gratitude to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Director-General of the SSS, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging their oversight and support in ensuring the protection of citizens.
“We pray that there will not be a repeat of such tragic events in any of our communities,” Hayab added. “Northern CAN pledges to support government and security agencies fully to ensure our churches and communities remain safe. We encourage everyone to report any suspicious activities promptly to the authorities.”
The safe return of the worshippers released today is a testament to the effective collaboration between government leadership and security agencies, as well as the resilience of the affected communities.
Northern CAN’s message underscores its commitment to peace, vigilance, and active partnership with security authorities to prevent future attacks and protect places of worship across Northern Nigeria.
