Kaduna community counters Army, says abducted worshippers not rescued

A community organisation in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has rejected claims that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service have been rescued by the Nigerian Army.

 

In a statement dated April 6, 2026, President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), J.D. Ariko, described the reports as false and misleading.

 

“Our attention has been drawn to claims that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons abducted during the Easter service in Ariko. We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false,” he said.

 

Ariko stated that the victims remain in captivity, noting that families are still in contact with the kidnappers, who have confirmed that the abductees are alive.

 

He said the situation contradicts reports of any successful rescue operation.

 

The victims were abducted after suspected bandits attacked two churches in the community on Easter Sunday, killing several worshippers and taking others away.

 

The community leader warned against the spread of unverified information, saying it could create false hope for families and erode public trust.

 

“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority. We call on all stakeholders to intensify sincere and coordinated efforts to secure their immediate and unconditional release,” he added.

 

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to respond to the claims.