All 166 Kidnapped Villagers and Churchgoers in Kaduna State Successfully Released
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed that all 166 individuals abducted during a brutal assault on kurmin Wali village and its churches in Kaduna State have been safely returned to their families.
uncertainty surrounds the Circumstances of Their Release
Reverend John Hayab, head of CAN’s northern chapter, announced the complete release but refrained from revealing whether ransom payments were involved or how negotiations unfolded to secure their freedom.
Similarly, Reverend Caleb Maaji, CAN’s leader in Kaduna State, confirmed the safe return after attending a meeting at the state government house. Preparations were underway for Governor Uba Sani to welcome the victims. “Everything is set for their arrival,” Maaji stated. “This outcome reflects our persistent prayers.”
official Statements and Partial Confirmations from Authorities
Nigerian government officials have yet to issue a comprehensive statement confirming all hostages’ release. Local news outlets quoted Governor Uba Sani acknowledging that 82 abductees had been freed so far.
The January Assault: A Traumatic Experience
On the morning of January 18th, armed assailants-commonly referred to as bandits-stormed Kurmin Wali wielding AK-47 rifles. Witnesses described how attackers forcefully entered homes and three local churches before abducting residents en masse.
A total of 177 people were initially kidnapped; though, eleven managed to escape either during or shortly after the attack.
Initial Government Denial Followed by Admission
The Kaduna State government first denied any such attack had taken place but reversed its position two days later by acknowledging an abduction incident and pledging efforts toward rescuing those held captive.
Motive behind The Abduction: Dispute Over Missing Motorcycles
The village chief disclosed that kidnappers accused locals of stealing ten motorcycles hidden nearby in forested areas. They demanded these vehicles be returned as part of negotiations-a tactic frequently employed by criminal groups operating across rural Nigeria.
An Emerging Pattern Amid Growing Security Challenges Across Nigeria
This mass kidnapping is one among many recent incidents intensifying pressure on Nigerian security forces amid escalating insecurity across states like Kaduna, Kwara, and Katsina where hundreds have been killed or abducted over recent months.
Global Scrutiny Over Allegations Of Religious Persecution
“Nigeria faces criticism from international leaders over alleged failure to protect religious minorities.”
The United States has publicly condemned Nigeria for inadequate measures against attacks targeting Christians within its borders. In late December last year,US military forces launched airstrikes against suspected terrorist camps in northwest Nigeria as part of joint counterterrorism operations with Abuja authorities who deny systematic persecution claims while emphasizing ongoing cooperation with Washington aimed at strengthening national security efforts.
A Forward Look: Resilience amidst persistent Turmoil
- Nigeria continues confronting multifaceted security threats involving armed banditry and communal violence impacting vulnerable populations nationwide;
- Civil society organizations actively promote peaceful dialog alongside governmental initiatives;
- The triumphant release of all hostages offers cautious hope but highlights urgent need for sustained strategies addressing root causes behind such violent episodes;
This episode underscores both the severe challenges faced by Nigerian communities living under constant threat from armed groups-and their resilience demonstrated through faith-driven collective actions striving for justice and peace despite adversity.
