Claims of a successful rescue of 31 abducted worshippers in Kaduna State have been dismissed by a community group as false.
The group said no such operation has taken place, describing the reports circulating in the public space as misleading.
Earlier reports had suggested that the Nigerian Army had rescued worshippers kidnapped during coordinated attacks on two churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, during Easter Sunday services.
The attack reportedly occurred when suspected bandits stormed the community in the early hours of Easter, killing several people and abducting worshippers, an incident that heightened insecurity concerns in southern Kaduna.
However, in a statement dated April 6, 2026, the President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, J.D. Ariko, said none of the abducted victims had been rescued.
He said the group was responding to claims of a successful rescue operation, insisting they were entirely inaccurate.
According to him, families of the victims are still in contact with the abductors, who reportedly confirmed that the captives remain in their custody.
He added that this directly contradicts claims that a rescue had been carried out.
The community leader expressed concern over the spread of unverified information, warning that such reports could create confusion, raise false hope among families, and undermine public trust.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by security agencies, he urged authorities to ensure only verified information is released on sensitive security matters.
He also called for intensified efforts to secure the safe release of all abducted worshippers.
