Kaduna worshippers rescue claim |By Sojworldnews | April 7, 2026
The Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA) has dismissed claims by the Nigerian Army that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, were rescued, insisting that all victims remain in captivity.
The development follows a deadly Easter Sunday attack by suspected bandits who invaded churches in Ariko community, killed several worshippers, and abducted dozens during religious services.
Kaduna worshippers rescue claim: Army Claims Successful Rescue Operation
The Nigerian Army had earlier announced that troops rescued 31 abducted worshippers after responding swiftly to a distress call from the community.
According to the Army, soldiers mobilised immediately after receiving intelligence about the attack and pursued the fleeing terrorists with the support of local residents.
The military said troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, which forced them to abandon 31 hostages, including an injured victim who was later taken for medical treatment.
Furthermore, the Army stated that its superior firepower overwhelmed the terrorists and disrupted their operation, leading to the successful rescue of the victims.
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Kaduna worshippers rescue claim: KUDA Rejects Army’s Claim
However, the Kuturmi Development Association described the Army’s claim as false and misleading, saying it does not reflect the reality on the ground.
In a statement jointly signed by KUDA President, J.D. Ariko, and Publicity Secretary, Manasseh Samuel, the association insisted that all abducted worshippers are still being held by their captors.
The group explained that families of the victims remain in direct contact with the kidnappers, who have confirmed that the abductees are still in captivity.
“Contrary to the reports being circulated, all the abducted persons are still in captivity with their abductors,” the association stated.
KUDA also warned that spreading unverified information could create confusion, raise false hope among affected families, and weaken public trust in security agencies.
Kaduna worshippers rescue claim: Details of the Easter Church Attack
Reports indicate that the attack occurred in the early hours of Easter Sunday when gunmen stormed churches in Ariko community during worship.
The attackers reportedly targeted multiple Christian worship centres, killed at least six persons, and abducted about 36 others before escaping into nearby forests.
As a result, the incident triggered widespread fear in Southern Kaduna and renewed concerns over rising insecurity and attacks on religious communities in the region.
Community leaders revealed that negotiations and communication with the kidnappers are ongoing, which suggests that no successful rescue operation has taken place so far.
Concerns Over Security Communication
KUDA expressed concern over what it described as inaccurate security reports and urged authorities to verify information before making public announcements on sensitive security matters.
According to the association, misleading information could worsen the emotional trauma faced by families of the abducted worshippers.
The group therefore called on the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate and unconditional release of the victims.
In addition, KUDA assured families of continued support and promised to provide credible updates as the situation develops.
Authorities Yet to Respond
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has not issued any further clarification regarding KUDA’s rejection of the rescue claim as of the time of filing this report.
Security analysts believe the controversy highlights the need for transparent and verifiable communication from authorities, especially in cases involving kidnappings and rescue operations.
For now, residents of the affected community continue to demand proof of the alleged rescue while hoping for the safe return of their loved ones.
The situation remains tense as families await concrete updates from security agencies.
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Kaduna, Nigerian Army, KUDA, Ariko community, Easter attack, Southern Kaduna, bandits, church attack, kidnapping, Nigeria insecurity, Kachia LGA, worshippers abducted
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