Kaduna gov visits freed worshippers as Northern CAN hails safe return

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, on Thursday visited church worshippers recently freed after spending weeks in captivity following a bandit attack on churches in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of the state.

The victims, abducted during a church service on January 18, 2026, are currently receiving medical care and psychosocial support at the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna, where the governor met with them.

The attack occurred when armed men stormed three churches in the community during worship, firing sporadically to create panic before herding worshippers into the surrounding forests.

It was earlier reported that no fewer than 177 worshippers were kidnapped during the coordinated assault. However, about 80 reportedly escaped while being marched into the bush and later sought refuge in neighbouring communities.

Confirming the release of the remaining victims, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, said he received information early Tuesday that the abducted worshippers had regained their freedom.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, for official confirmation were unsuccessful.

During his visit on Thursday, Governor Sani interacted with the freed worshippers and assured them of the government’s continued support as they recover from the traumatic experience.

Meanwhile, the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed joy and relief over the safe return of the abducted worshippers, describing the development as reassuring for the church and affected communities.

In a statement issued in Kaduna, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, commended Governor Sani for what he described as compassionate and responsive leadership during the crisis.

“We rejoice with the Church and the people of Kurmin Wali for the safe return of all kidnapped victims,” Hayab said.

He added that the governor listened to the cries of the people and fulfilled his promise to ensure the release of the abducted worshippers.

Northern CAN also praised the efforts of security agencies involved in securing the release, including the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and other operatives.

According to the association, the outcome reflected professionalism, coordination, and sustained commitment among security personnel.

The group further acknowledged the roles played by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, and President Bola Tinubu in ensuring the safety of citizens.

Hayab urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, while reaffirming Northern CAN’s commitment to working with authorities to safeguard churches and communities across the region.

He described the safe return of the worshippers as a testament to effective collaboration between government, security agencies, and local communities, and prayed that such incidents would not recur.