Prosper Okoye
A community group in Kaduna state has rejected reports that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in southern Kaduna have been rescued by the Nigerian Army, describing the claims as false and misleading.
The denial follows earlier reports that troops freed victims kidnapped during an attack on two churches in Ariko community, in Kachia local government area, on Easter Sunday.
Suspected bandits had stormed the community in the early hours of the holiday, attacking two Christian worship centres, killing several people and abducting dozens, an incident that drew widespread outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the region.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a statement dated April 6, the President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, J.D. Ariko, said all abducted persons remain in captivity.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging 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 and misleading,” the statement said.
He added that families of the victims are still in contact with the abductors, who have reportedly confirmed that the victims are alive and being held at their camp.
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“This clearly invalidates any claim of a successful rescue operation,” he said.
The group warned that inaccurate reports could create confusion, give false hope to families and undermine public trust in official communication.
While acknowledging ongoing security efforts, the association urged authorities to release only verified information, especially on matters involving lives.
“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority. We call on all stakeholders to intensify genuine and coordinated efforts toward securing their immediate and unconditional release,” the statement added.
The group also expressed solidarity with affected families and said it would provide updates as credible information becomes available.
The Nigerian Army had not responded to the denial at the time of filing this report.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
