Abducted Kaduna worshippers regain freedom

Worshippers abducted during a church attack in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have regained their freedom.

The victims were kidnapped on Sunday, January 18, 2026, when gunmen stormed churches in the community during services.

A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the victims were released late Wednesday night under unclear circumstances.

According to him, residents noticed heavy-duty vehicles moving into a forest near the Maro axis between 11 p.m. and midnight.

The vehicles reportedly returned between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. with the abducted persons.

“Between about 11 p.m. and 12 midnight, we were informed that large vehicles entered the forest.

“Later, around 1 a.m. to 2 a.m., they came out with the abducted people from the Maro area,” he said.

“We do not know who went to take them or who released them.

“We are also not certain whether all of them were freed, but their release has been confirmed.”

It remains unclear whether any ransom was paid or if the 17 motorcycles reportedly demanded by the kidnappers were handed over as part of negotiations.

Earlier reports indicated that at least 177 worshippers were abducted during the attack.

About two weeks later, 80 victims — mostly children — reportedly escaped and took refuge in nearby forest settlements.

Confirming the latest development, the village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, expressed appreciation to the Kaduna State Government and security agencies for their efforts.

“We also received the information today that they have been released.

“We are happy and they are currently with the government,” he said.

Dan’azumi noted that those freed include children, women, and adults but declined to provide further details.

A security source also confirmed the release, saying, “Yes, you are correct. They were released last night.”

As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.