Gunmen have abducted dozens of Christian worshippers following coordinated attacks on churches in the Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, deepening security concerns in northern Nigeria.
Titansloaded reports that the attackers struck during Sunday church services, storming at least two congregations and forcing worshippers into nearby bushes before kidnapping them. The assaults targeted predominantly Christian communities in the remote area.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in northern Nigeria disclosed that the gunmen blocked church entrances and seized a large number of worshippers. According to CAN officials, initial estimates indicated that over 170 people were taken, although some later escaped, while several others remain unaccounted for.
Local sources identified the affected churches as an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) congregation and a Cherubim and Seraphim church. Survivors narrated that the gunmen were heavily armed and operated in an organised manner, causing panic among worshippers and residents.
Security operatives confirmed the incident, stating that police and military personnel have been deployed to the area. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to verify the exact number of abducted persons and to track the kidnappers’ movements.
A member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly representing the area said the attacks occurred at multiple locations, describing them as coordinated and deliberate. He added that the terrain and limited security presence have made rural communities vulnerable to repeated assaults.
The Kaduna church attack has renewed calls for stronger security measures in vulnerable communities, especially during religious gatherings. Religious leaders expressed concern over the continued targeting of worshippers and appealed to the government for urgent intervention.
Community leaders lamented that banditry and mass kidnapping have become frequent in parts of Kaduna State, often driven by ransom demands. They warned that continued attacks could force residents to abandon their homes and places of worship.
Security analysts note that the Nigeria church attack in Kaduna reflects a broader pattern of insecurity across northern Nigeria, where armed groups exploit weak infrastructure and limited surveillance.
Families of the abducted worshippers have called for swift action to secure the release of their loved ones. As rescue operations continue, tension remains high in Kurmin Wali and neighbouring communities.
