BREAKING: Jubilation in Kaduna as Over 160 Abducted Worshippers Regain Freedom After Harrowing Ordeal

In a major breakthrough for security forces, more than 160 worshippers abducted by bandits from three churches in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have been released and reunited with their families. The victims, who were kidnapped during a Sunday service on January 18, 2026, arrived at the Kaduna State Government House on Thursday, where they were received by Governor Uba Sani amid scenes of relief and tears.

A competent source with knowledge of the developments confirmed the release to SaharaReporters, noting that the freed worshippers were being evacuated to the Government House as of the time of filing the report. Details surrounding the circumstances of their release remain sketchy, but multiple reports indicate a coordinated operation involving the Department of State Services (DSS), the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the Nigerian Army played a key role in securing their freedom.

Governor Uba Sani, addressing the rescued victims, dignitaries, and security chiefs at the Government House, described the day as “truly a day of joy” and commended the collaborative efforts of security agencies. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending banditry and kidnapping in the state, pledging to leave no stone unturned until all captives are safely home. “We will continue to intensify our efforts to rescue every single person held by these criminals,” Sani said.

The abducted worshippers, numbering around 177 according to initial reports, included men, women, children as young as six, and elderly persons. They were taken from the Haske Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and the Baptist Church during coordinated attacks. Some victims managed to escape shortly after the abduction, with about 80 reported to have fled the bandits’ den and hidden in nearby villages for weeks due to fear of recapture. The remaining captives endured weeks of hardship, recounting tales of hunger, beatings, and strict confinement in the bandits’ hideouts.

One of the freed worshippers, speaking anonymously to reporters, described the ordeal: “We were marched through bush paths for hours, with little food or water. The bandits beat us if we complained. It’s a miracle we’re alive.” Visible signs of trauma were evident among the victims, with some limping and others breaking down in tears upon arrival at the Government House.

The bandits had initially demanded a ransom of N250 million and 20 motorcycles for the release of the 166 remaining hostages, as reported earlier. However, it is unclear if any ransom was paid, as authorities have emphasized that the release was achieved through security operations. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna confirmed the release, with its leader, Reverend Caleb Ma’aji, stating he had just returned from the Government House where the governor was set to receive the worshippers.

Residents of Kajuru LGA have long lived under the shadow of banditry, with frequent mass abductions, killings, and arson attacks displacing hundreds of families. Many villagers have abandoned their farmlands and livelihoods in search of safety. Community leaders have repeatedly urged the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to deploy stronger measures to protect rural communities.

In the wake of the initial attack, the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu, visited the affected churches, instructing those present to switch off their mobile phones and refrain from recording videos or taking photographs. This move drew criticism from locals who felt it hindered transparency.

The release has brought a wave of jubilation across Kaduna and beyond, with social media users expressing relief and calling for sustained action against insecurity. One X user noted, “Governor Uba Sani has received the remaining 172 worshippers… marking a major victory for Kaduna State and the Federal Government’s efforts.”