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80 worshippers who were abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali village, Kaduna State, have escaped from their captors and returned home. The village head, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed that initially, 177 worshippers were believed to have been kidnapped, but 80 have since escaped, leaving 86 still in captivity.
The abduction occurred on January 18, 2026, when armed men stormed the village during a worship session. The kidnappers had demanded the return of 17 stolen motorcycles, valued at approximately ₦29 million, before releasing the hostages. However, the village head clarified that the motorcycles were not stolen but rather impounded by the military for allegedly being involved in illegal mining activities.
The security situation in the area remains volatile, with recent attacks and killings reported. The community is appealing for government and military intervention to rescue the remaining abductees. The village head expressed gratitude for the safe return of the 80 worshippers but emphasized the urgent need to secure the release of those still in captivity.
The incident has caused significant trauma, and the community is in distress. The village head urged the authorities to take immediate action to address the security challenges in the region. The abduction has also raised concerns about the safety of worshippers and the need for increased security measures in places of worship.
The military has been involved in efforts to rescue the abductees, but the situation remains critical. The village head appealed to the government and security agencies to do more to protect the community and ensure the safe return of the remaining hostages.
The abduction in Kurmin Wali is part of a broader pattern of insecurity in Kaduna State, with bandits and terrorists frequently targeting civilians. The community is calling for more effective measures to address the root causes of insecurity and protect vulnerable populations.
The 80 escaped worshippers are receiving support and counseling as they reintegrate into their community. The village head thanked the military and security agencies for their efforts in facilitating the release of the abductees.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria’s security forces in protecting civilians, particularly in rural areas. The government has been urged to take a more proactive approach to addressing insecurity and ensuring the safety of citizens.
The community in Kurmin Wali is resilient but clearly shaken by the abduction. The village head’s statement reflects the mix of relief and concern felt by the community as they await news of the remaining abductees.
The situation in Kaduna State remains a concern, with ongoing efforts to address insecurity and protect vulnerable populations. The government and security agencies are working to restore peace and stability to the region .
Source -The Cable
