Eighty worshippers abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have reportedly escaped from their captors and reunited with their families, leaving 86 others still in captivity.
The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Mr Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development on Sunday, explaining that the victims managed to flee from the bandits’ hideout and sought safety in neighbouring communities before returning home. He said the escape occurred under difficult conditions, although details of how the worshippers broke free were not disclosed.
Dan’azumi clarified that earlier reports claiming that 177 worshippers were abducted during the attack were inaccurate. According to him, further verification showed that 80 of the abducted victims successfully escaped, while 86 remain in the custody of the attackers.
He described the situation in the community as distressing, noting that many affected families are currently undergoing severe emotional trauma. The traditional ruler also expressed concern over what he described as attempts by some individuals to politicise the tragic incident, urging restraint and empathy.
“We have observed that some people are trying to politicise our situation, even as families are going through serious trauma,” Dan’azumi said.
The village head appealed to the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining abductees and ensure their safe return. “We are appealing to the government and the military to expedite action to secure the release of the remaining 86 people still in the bandits’ camp,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Police Command has assured the public that it is working on the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said a comprehensive statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the abduction would be released.
The attack, which occurred during a church service, has heightened concerns over insecurity in rural communities across Kaduna State. Residents of Kajuru have continued to call for increased security presence to prevent further attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
