Kaduna Abduction: 80 Worshippers Return Home Weeks After Attack

Eighty worshippers who escaped being kidnapped during a bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes.

Several others are still in captivity, as security agencies continue operations aimed at rescuing the abducted victims.

The village head, Ishaku Danazumi, confirmed the development, stating that the worshippers fled after gunmen invaded the community during a church service on January 18, 2026, abducting many people while others escaped to safety.

He said the returnees came back almost two weeks after the incident and were found to be in good condition.

According to Danazumi, although 80 worshippers avoided abduction, 86 others are still being held by the bandits.

Security sources said the return of the displaced residents followed intensified military offensives against bandit camps in Kajuru and adjoining forest areas.

The Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer in Kajuru visited the community, met the victims, and carried out profiling and debriefing.

Last month, more than 100 people were abducted when gunmen attacked three churches in the area.

The incident was initially denied by authorities after the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in the state first reported it.

Days later, the Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the incident “did happen”.

Governor Uba Sani later visited Kurmin Wali community and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of those abducted.

“The people of Kurmin Wali, just like other communities in Kaduna State, have absolute trust and belief in our government. Because they know we are running an inclusive government.

“We protect the lives of everyone, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation. We are one in Kaduna State. And I’m happy the people of Kurmin Wali have understood that clearly.

“That is the reason why when we came in here, you can see how they received us warmly, even those that are mourning, even those that are grieving, they are with the government.”

United States authorities and several advocacy groups have also appealed to the government and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the remaining abductees.