Bandits have reportedly released the remaining worshippers kidnapped during a Sunday attack on three churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attackers had stormed the churches during service, firing gunshots to scare people before forcing worshippers into the surrounding forest.
Reports earlier stated that about 177 worshippers were abducted during the coordinated assault. However, around 80 of them reportedly escaped while being taken into the bush and later found safety in nearby villages.
Confirming the latest development, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, said he received information on Tuesday morning that those still in captivity had been released.
“I got the information of their release this morning. They are currently with the government in Kaduna,” he said, adding that he could not provide more details yet.
When asked if ransom or motorcycles were paid as part of negotiations, Dan’azumi said he could not confirm and explained that he was preparing to travel to Kaduna to meet the victims.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State, Rev. Ma’aji Caleb, also confirmed the release, describing it as a relief to the affected families.
“Glory be to God, my people are out. We hope to connect with them today. This was through our prayers and the efforts of the government,” he said.
Rev. Caleb added that he was not involved in any negotiation process and could not confirm if ransom was paid, stressing that the most important thing was that the worshippers had regained their freedom. He also praised Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for showing commitment to protecting lives and property.
A senior police officer, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the remaining worshippers were released on Wednesday night but said the exact number could not be confirmed.
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Meanwhile, a community stakeholder in Kajuru claimed that empty buses and motorcycles were seen late Wednesday night moving towards nearby bush areas, suggesting they may have been used to convey the released victims out of the forest.
Following the attack, security agencies reportedly launched search-and-rescue operations, while local authorities and community leaders worked to account for victims and provide support for families.
The incident has once again highlighted the persistent insecurity in parts of Southern Kaduna, where rural communities continue to face kidnappings and attacks despite ongoing security operations.
As of the time of this report, details surrounding the release remain unclear, and efforts to reach the Kaduna State Police spokesperson were unsuccessful.
