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177 Worshippers Abducted in Kaduna's Largest Mass Kidnapping

1/22/2026

49 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On January 20, 2026, in Kaduna state, Nigeria, 177 worshippers were abducted during simultaneous church services by suspected Fulani militias, per state lawmaker Usman Danlami Stingo.
Local leaders say the incident could be the largest mass kidnapping of Christian farmers in the area, while police dismissed reports as rumors.
Amnesty International condemned the government's inadequate response.

History

Historical Context

The 2014 kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram in Chibok, Nigeria, marked a pivotal moment in the fight against militant extremism. This incident, part of a broader trend of mass abductions since 2009, drew global attention and sparked the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. The ongoing violence, including the recent abduction of 177 worshippers in Kaduna, highlights the urgent need for effective security measures in Nigeria.

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Story summary

On January 20, 2026, in Kaduna state, Nigeria, 177 worshippers were abducted during simultaneous church services by suspected Fulani militias, per state lawmaker Usman Danlami Stingo.
Local leaders say the incident could be the largest mass kidnapping of Christian farmers in the area, while police dismissed reports as rumors.
Amnesty International condemned the government's inadequate response.

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