By IDNN Security Desk
Kaduna Church Abduction Sparks Conflicting Official Accounts
The Kaduna church abduction narrative took a dramatic turn after the Nigeria Police Force confirmed that worshippers were abducted from two churches in Kajuru Local Government Area, contradicting earlier statements by state and local authorities that dismissed the reports as false.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday in Kurmin Wali community, where armed assailants stormed services at Cherubim and Seraphim Church 1 and Cherubim and Seraphim Church 2, forcing worshippers into surrounding bush paths.
Initial claims suggested more than 160 worshippers were taken during the attack.
Initial Denials Deepen Confusion
Following the reports, the Kaduna State Government, the Kaduna State Police Command, and Kajuru Local Government officials publicly rejected the abduction claims.
The Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Muhammad Rabiu, described the reports as the handiwork of “conflict entrepreneurs,” challenging claimants to provide names of alleged victims. Local government officials echoed the position, stating that no evidence of an attack was found during visits to the affected churches.
These denials, however, intensified public confusion and heightened fears among residents and religious groups.
Police Reverse Position, Confirm Abduction
In a subsequent statement, the Nigeria Police Force clarified that the incident did occur, explaining that the initial response was intended to prevent panic while facts were being verified.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said intelligence and operational reports later confirmed the abduction, prompting immediate action.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the deployment of tactical units, intensified patrols, and coordinated search-and-rescue operations across Kajuru and neighbouring communities.
Security Operations Underway in Kajuru
According to police authorities, multiple security agencies are now working jointly to locate and rescue the abducted worshippers and restore calm in the area.
Eyewitness accounts cited by international media, including Reuters, described signs of disturbance inside the churches, abandoned personal items, and panicked congregants fleeing during the attack.
Some victims reportedly escaped, while others remain unaccounted for as security operations continue.
Political and Social Reactions Mount
The Peoples Democratic Party has called on the Federal Government to launch comprehensive rescue efforts, describing the incident as further evidence of Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
Religious leaders have also urged authorities to prioritise the safe return of abducted worshippers while cautioning against narratives that could inflame sectarian tensions.
Security analysts say the episode underscores persistent verification gaps during breaking security incidents, particularly in remote communities where communication is limited.
Focus on Rescue, Not Rumours
The police have appealed to the public and the media to rely on verified official updates and avoid speculation that could compromise rescue efforts or escalate fear.
As tactical operations continue in Kajuru, attention remains fixed on the safe recovery of victims and the need for clearer, faster institutional communication during security emergencies.
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