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A community organisation in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has rejected reports suggesting that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service have been rescued by the Nigerian Army.
In a statement dated April 6, 2026, President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, KUDA, J.D. Ariko, described the reports as inaccurate and misleading.
“Our attention has been drawn to claims that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons abducted during the Easter service in Ariko. We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false,” the statement said.
According to the community leader, the victims are still being held by their captors, with families reportedly maintaining communication with the kidnappers, who have confirmed that the abductees remain alive in their custody.
He noted that this directly contradicts any assertion that a rescue operation had taken place.
The abductions followed an attack by suspected bandits on two churches in Ariko on Easter Sunday, during which several worshippers were killed and many others taken away.
Ariko expressed concern over the spread of unverified information, warning that such reports could mislead the public, create false hope for affected families, and undermine trust in official communication.
He called on authorities to ensure that only verified and accurate updates are released, particularly on sensitive security matters.
“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority. We call on all stakeholders to intensify sincere and coordinated efforts to secure their immediate and unconditional release,” he added.
The association also pledged continued support for the affected families and assured the public that updates would be provided as credible information becomes available.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official response to the claims.
‘False claim’ – Kaduna community counters Nigerian Army on rescue of 31 abducted worshippers
