Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State was thrown into confusion on Sunday after reports emerged that over 170 worshippers had been kidnapped from three churches, including ECWA and Cherubim and Seraphim, during services.
Eyewitnesses claimed that attackers arrived in large numbers in the Kurmin Wali community, firing shots to scare residents before abducting congregants, including women and youths, and taking them into nearby forests. Some elderly victims were reportedly released, while the majority remained in captivity.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) chairman for 19 northern states, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, confirmed that 172 people were allegedly abducted, with nine escaping and 163 still reportedly held by the attackers. He urged collaboration with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the worshippers.
However, Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Muhammad Rabiu, and the chairman of Kajuru Local Government, Dauda Madaki, dismissed the reports as false, describing them as fabrications aimed at disturbing the peace. The police challenged anyone making the claims to provide names and details of the alleged victims. Local community leaders also confirmed no attack took place.
The Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu, SAN, said investigations, including consultations with CAN and other religious leaders, confirmed that the reports were unfounded.
Despite the conflicting accounts, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed deep concern over the alleged incident, describing it as a failure of the federal government to protect Nigerians and safeguard the right to freedom of worship. The party called on the Tinubu administration to take immediate action to ensure security for worshippers across the country.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, verify reports before spreading information, and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
