Kaduna Community Denies Rescue of 31 Abducted Worshippers

The Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, has officially denied claims that the Nigerian Army successfully rescued 31 worshippers who were abducted during an Easter service. In a statement dated April 6, 2026, the community described the reports as entirely false and misleading.

This denial followed earlier reports suggesting that troops had freed the victims after a coordinated attack on two churches during Easter Sunday. Community leader Kuturmi emphasized that families of the abducted individuals had confirmed that the victims remain alive and are still held captive.

The community expressed concern over the circulation of inaccurate information, warning that such reports create confusion and false hope for the grieving families. They called on security agencies to ensure verified information is released, stressing the importance of the safe return of the abducted individuals.

The community also urged stakeholders to intensify genuine coordinated efforts toward ensuring their unconditional release.