RESIDENTS of Arikon community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have strongly refuted claims by the Nigerian Army that dozens of worshippers abducted during a deadly Easter attack have been rescued, insisting that all victims remain in captivity.
News Point Nigeria reports that the development follows the violent invasion of a branch of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), where armed bandits stormed a church service, killing five worshippers and abducting several others, sparking outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the region.
In a statement issued earlier, the Nigerian Army said its troops responded swiftly to a distress call and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
According to the military, the pressure from advancing troops forced the assailants to abandon “dozens of abducted worshippers,” with at least 31 victims reportedly rescued.
The Army added that one of the victims sustained injuries during the incident and was receiving medical attention.
However, the Kuturmi Unity Development Association has dismissed the Army’s account as “false and misleading,” maintaining that none of the abducted worshippers has regained freedom.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr J D Ariko, and Publicity Secretary, Hon. Manasseh Samuel, the association said families of the victims are still in direct contact with the abductors.
“We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false and does not reflect the current situation,” the statement read.
“Contrary to the reports being circulated, all the abducted persons are still in captivity with their abductors. The families and representatives of the victims remain in contact with the bandits, who have confirmed the safe arrival of the victims at their camp.”
The group warned that such conflicting reports could worsen the emotional distress of affected families.
“False reports of this nature create unnecessary confusion, give families false hope, and undermine public trust in official communications,” the association added.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies in addressing insecurity, the community urged authorities to ensure that only verified information is released, particularly on sensitive matters involving human lives.
They also called for intensified and coordinated efforts to secure the safe and unconditional release of all abducted worshippers.
“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority,” the statement emphasised.
Community sources had earlier identified those killed in the attack as Tanko Haruna, Waziri Agunu, Aminu Soba, Joseph Audu, and Adamu Jatau, all of whom were reportedly shot while attempting to escape.
Among those abducted are Garba Tanko, his wife Lami Garba, their daughter Rachel Garba, and a grandchild, Moses Yakubu.
Others include Rahab Usman and her daughter Victoria Rahab; Sunday Ayuba; and Dantani Alhaji, who was kidnapped alongside his wife, Mary Dantani, and their three daughters, identified as Helen, Rejoice, and Ahmadu.