Kaduna community denies Army’s claim of rescuing 31 abducted worshippers

The Kuturmi Unity Development Association in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State has disputed claims by the Nigerian Army that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in Ariko community have been rescued.

The association described the military’s report as false and misleading.

The army had earlier announced that troops successfully freed victims kidnapped during a coordinated attack on two churches in the community on Easter Sunday.

However, in a joint statement dated April 6, 2026, signed by the community’s president, J.D. Ariko, and secretary, Manasseh Samuel, the association said all abducted persons remain in captivity.

“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging 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 and misleading,” the statement read.

The association added that families of the victims are still in contact with the abductors, who have reportedly confirmed that the victims are alive and being held at their camp.

“This clearly contradicts any claim of a successful rescue operation,” the statement said.

The community leaders expressed concern over the circulation of what they described as inaccurate information, warning that such reports could create confusion, give false hope to grieving families, and erode public trust in official communication.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by security agencies to address insecurity, the association urged authorities to ensure that only verified information is released, particularly on sensitive matters involving lives.

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

The association also expressed solidarity with affected families and said updates would be communicated as credible information becomes available.