Mass Kidnapping of Worshippers in Kaduna State, Nigeria

On January 20, 2026, armed gangs reportedly kidnapped a significant number of worshippers during Sunday services at multiple churches in Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Initial estimates from church leaders indicated that at least 163 to 177 individuals were abducted, while local police and government officials initially dismissed these claims as false. The attacks are part of a broader pattern of violence and insecurity in Nigeria, particularly affecting religious communities.

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Church leaders, including Reverend John Hayab of the Christian Association of Nigeria, reported that gunmen stormed the churches around 9 a.m., forcing congregants into the bush. Hayab stated that 172 worshippers were taken, with nine managing to escape. In contrast, Kaduna State Police Commissioner Muhammad Rabiu labeled these reports as "mere falsehood," challenging anyone to provide the names of the alleged victims. Local officials, including state lawmaker Usman Danlami Stingo, corroborated the church leaders' accounts, asserting that 177 individuals were indeed kidnapped.

Nigerian police recognize church attacks that abducted 168 after initial denial

Following the initial denials, the Nigerian police later acknowledged that an abduction had occurred, with police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin stating that operations were underway to locate and rescue the victims. However, the police's earlier dismissals have drawn criticism, with accusations of politicizing the situation to maintain a facade of security in the region. The Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria reported that their representatives were blocked from accessing the area to verify the claims.

Nigerian police recognize church attacks that abducted 168 after initial denial

The kidnappings in Kaduna State are symptomatic of a larger security crisis in Nigeria, characterized by rampant violence from various armed groups, including Islamist militants and bandits. These groups often target vulnerable communities for ransom, contributing to a climate of fear and instability. The U.S. has recently increased its military involvement in Nigeria, conducting airstrikes against militant camps, highlighting the international dimension of the security challenges faced by the Nigerian government.

Kaduna state kidnap: More than 160 churchgoers kidnapped in twin Nigeria attacks, clergy say

Critics, including human rights organizations like Amnesty International, have condemned the Nigerian government's handling of the situation, arguing that the denial of the attacks reflects a lack of effective strategy to combat the ongoing violence. They assert that the government's failure to acknowledge the severity of the crisis undermines efforts to protect vulnerable communities.

Nigerian police recognize church attacks that abducted 168 after initial denial

The mass kidnapping of worshippers in Kaduna State underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, where armed groups exploit religious and ethnic tensions. As the government grapples with conflicting reports and public outcry, the safety of citizens remains precarious, necessitating urgent and effective responses to restore security and trust in law enforcement.

Armed men abduct over 160 worshippers from at least 2 Nigerian churches

• “The attackers came in numbers and blocked the entrance of the churches and forced the worshippers out into the bush,” — Reverend John Hayab, Christian Association of Nigeria

Kaduna state kidnap: More than 160 churchgoers kidnapped in twin Nigeria attacks, clergy say

• “I am one of the people who escaped from the bandits. We all saw it happen, and anyone who says it didn’t happen is lying,” — Ishaku Dan'azumi, Village Head of Kurmin Wali

Nigeria police deny attacks as residents insist 168 people are held by armed groups

• “The latest mass abduction clearly shows President Bola Tinubu and his government have no effective plan for ending years of atrocities by armed groups and gunmen that killed thousands of people,” — Amnesty International Statement

Nigerian police recognize church attacks that abducted 168 after initial denial

This incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of violence and ensure the safety of all citizens in Nigeria.

Nigerian police recognize church attacks that abducted 168 after initial denial