Eighty worshippers who narrowly escaped abduction during a bandit assault on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes, nearly two weeks after fleeing for safety.
Despite their return, dozens of other victims remain in the custody of their abductors, as security agencies intensify rescue operations across the area.
The village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Danazumi, confirmed the development, explaining that the returnees were among those who managed to escape when armed bandits invaded the community during a church service on January 18, 2026. The attackers abducted several worshippers while others fled into surrounding areas to avoid being taken.
Danazumi said the 80 returnees were in good health when they arrived back in the community, adding that although many escaped, a total of 86 worshippers are still being held by the kidnappers.
Security sources linked the return of the displaced residents to intensified military offensives against bandit camps in Kajuru and adjoining forest routes, which reportedly pressured the criminals and reduced their movements.
The spokesman of the Kaduna State Police Command, Mansir Hassan, said the Divisional Police Officer of Kajuru visited Kurmin Wali following the return of the worshippers. According to him, the victims were seen, documented, profiled, and debriefed as part of ongoing security procedures.
The incident forms part of a wider pattern of attacks in the area. Last month, more than 100 people were abducted when gunmen launched coordinated attacks on three churches. At the time, authorities initially denied that the abductions occurred after the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State raised the alarm.
However, days later, the Nigeria Police Force spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, acknowledged that the incident “did happen”.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, later visited the affected community, assuring residents that the abducted worshippers would be safely rescued.
“The people of Kurmin Wali, just like other communities in Kaduna State, have absolute trust and belief in our government. Because they know we are running an inclusive government.
“We protect the lives of everyone, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation. We are one in Kaduna State. And I’m happy the people of Kurmin Wali have understood that clearly.
“That is the reason why when we came in here, you can see how they received us warmly, even those that are mourning, even those that are grieving, they are with the government.”
International attention has also followed the attack, with US authorities and pressure groups urging the Nigerian government and security agencies to ensure the safe and unconditional release of those still in captivity.
What you should know
The Kurmin Wali attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing parts of Kaduna State, particularly religious communities targeted by armed groups.
While 80 worshippers have safely returned after escaping abduction, 86 others remain in captivity, prompting sustained military and police operations in Kajuru and nearby forests. The incident initially drew controversy after official denial, later confirmed by police authorities.
Local and international pressure continues to mount on the government to secure the release of the remaining abductees and restore lasting security to affected communities.
