In a dramatic turn of events, soldiers have rescued 31 worshippers who were abducted during an Easter service in Kaduna State. The incident occurred on April 5, 2026, when bandits stormed a church in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area, and took several worshippers captive.
The rescued worshippers were among a larger group of 177 people abducted by the bandits during the attack. While some have been released or escaped, many remain in captivity, with the bandits demanding ransom for their release.
The Kaduna State Government has confirmed the rescue, praising the soldiers for their bravery and efforts to restore peace to the affected community. The government has also vowed to continue working with security agencies to secure the release of those still in captivity.
The abduction had sparked widespread outrage and concern, with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other groups calling for the immediate release of the victims. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Kaduna State, where bandits and terrorists have been targeting communities and churches.
The rescue operation is a welcome relief for the affected families, who have been living in fear and uncertainty since the abduction. The government and security agencies are working to ensure the safe return of all remaining captives.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for increased vigilance and security measures to protect worshippers and communities from such attacks.