Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, on Thursday received worshippers who were recently freed after being abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of the state.
The victims arrived at the Government House at about 1:00 p.m., escorted by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in no fewer than four buses. A video shared by ARISE News showed that those rescued included nursing mothers, children, and elderly persons.
Several of the freed worshippers appeared visibly distressed, with some limping and others breaking down in tears—clear signs of the physical and emotional trauma endured during their time in captivity.
Governor Sani had earlier assured residents of Kurmin Wali that sustained efforts were underway to secure the release of all abducted worshippers.
He also visited survivors receiving care at the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna, where he expressed deep sympathy and described the attack as unfortunate and heartbreaking.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to combat banditry and kidnapping, the governor pledged that no effort would be spared in restoring peace and ensuring that all captives are reunited with their families.
He commended security agencies for their swift and coordinated response and called on residents to continue cooperating with authorities to achieve lasting security in the affected communities.
The worshippers were abducted on January 18, 2026, during church services in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area. Armed assailants reportedly stormed three churches simultaneously, firing sporadically to instil fear before abducting worshippers and leading them into nearby forests.
Confirming the release, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, told journalists in a telephone interview on Thursday that he received information early Tuesday morning that the abducted worshippers had regained their freedom.
It will be recalled that at least 177 worshippers were kidnapped during the coordinated attack. However, about 80 of them reportedly escaped while being marched into the forest and later found safety in neighbouring villages.
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