The Nigerian military has dismissed allegations of a slow or ineffective response to the abduction of more than 100 worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, insisting that intensive efforts are ongoing to secure the victims’ safe release.
The abductions occurred last Sunday when armed assailants attacked the community, triggering criticism from some residents who accused security forces of failing to act swiftly or prevent the kidnappings.
Community members also claimed that troops withdrew after making what they described as a weak attempt to pursue the attackers into nearby forests.
However, the Defence Headquarters firmly refuted the claims, emphasizing that rescue operations have been proactive, sustained, and strategically coordinated.
In a statement issued by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Media Operations of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the military acknowledged the anguish of affected families but assured them that rescuing the abducted worshippers remains a top priority.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria have taken due note of the concerns raised by displaced residents of Kurmin Wali regarding efforts to secure the release of their abducted family members,” Onoja said. “We wish to reassure the affected communities and the general public that the safe rescue and reintegration of all kidnapped victims remain a paramount undertaking.”
Addressing accusations of delayed action, the military said it is working closely with other security agencies to conduct sustained, intelligence-led operations in the area and surrounding forests believed to be harboring the kidnappers.
“Contrary to claims of a diminished response, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, are executing coordinated ground patrols, surveillance missions, intelligence gathering, and targeted operations designed to locate the perpetrators and rescue the hostages without compromising their safety,” the statement said.
The military explained that what may appear as restraint in certain situations is a deliberate operational strategy aimed at preventing harm to the captives. While operational details remain classified for security reasons, authorities stressed that significant progress is being made to dismantle the criminal networks behind the abductions.
Reaffirming its mandate, the Armed Forces pledged to protect lives and property and vowed to reunite the victims with their families.
The military also appealed to the public for patience, cooperation, and continued support as rescue operations progress toward a successful conclusion.
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