Bandits Free Kidnapped Worshippers in Kaduna Church Attack

Agboola Victor February 5, 2026 2 minutes read

Bandits have reportedly released the remaining worshippers abducted during a Sunday attack on three churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The attack saw armed men storming churches during services, firing sporadically to spread fear, and taking dozens of worshippers into nearby forests. Earlier reports stated that 177 people were kidnapped, while about 80 managed to escape and find refuge in neighbouring villages.

Confirming the release, Kurmin Wali Village Head, Ishaku Dan’azumi, told news outlets on Thursday that the freed worshippers were in government custody in Kaduna. He could not provide details on whether ransom or other demands by the bandits had been met.

Rev. Ma’aji Caleb, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State, also confirmed the development, praising prayers and government efforts that contributed to the release. “Glory be to God, my people are out. We hope to connect with them today,” he said.

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A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, corroborated the release on Wednesday night, although the exact number of freed victims remains unclear. A local source suggested that motorcycles and empty buses were used to transport the released worshippers.

Following the attack, security agencies launched search-and-rescue operations while local authorities and community leaders worked to account for the abducted worshippers and support affected families.

The incident highlights the ongoing threat of banditry in Southern Kaduna, especially in rural areas where security presence remains limited. Kajuru Local Government Area has frequently experienced kidnappings and attacks on religious centres despite repeated military and police interventions.

Efforts to reach Kaduna State Police spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan for comment were unsuccessful.