Residents of Kaduna’s Kurmin Wali community allege 177 worshippers were abducted during church services, despite official denials

Residents of Kurmin Wali community in Afogo Ward, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have alleged that scores of worshippers were abducted during church services on Sunday, January 18, despite official denials from the Kaduna State government and police.

Also read: Kaduna govt dismisses reports of mass church abduction

The community released a list containing 177 alleged abductees from three churches, including a Catholic church, an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and a Cherubim and Seraphim church.

The move followed a public challenge by the state Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Muhammad Rabiu, who had asked for details of the supposed victims.

According to credible sources, families of the alleged abductees have made contact with the kidnappers and are aware of the general location of the victims, who were reportedly moved on foot into surrounding forests shortly after the attack.

Sources lamented that security operatives were constrained from acting decisively due to official claims that no abduction occurred, warning that delays could endanger lives.

The community drew parallels with past incidents, including the Chibok girls’ abduction during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, expressing frustration over perceived denials by authorities.

Most of the abducted persons were reportedly children and youths, raising concerns over the urgency of rescue efforts.

Kaduna State Police Command and the government have dismissed reports of the abduction, stating that security checks found no evidence of an attack.

As of the time of reporting, no official response had been issued regarding the newly released list of alleged abductees.

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, expressed concern over the alleged incident, describing it as a grim reflection of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

Obi noted the recurring reports of mass kidnappings, disputed figures, and official denials as evidence of a broader crisis affecting safety, leadership, and national cohesion.

Obi urged the government to prioritise the protection of communities and lives, expressing solidarity with Kaduna residents and families of the alleged victims.

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He called for urgent action to address the growing insecurity, stating that whether the incident is confirmed or not, authorities must treat human life as sacred and respond swiftly.