Mirian Gom 
KADUNA, Nigeria – All 183 worshippers abducted from Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area regain their freedom, 18 days after gunmen stormed a church service.
Governor Uba Sani receives the freed victims at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Thursday, describing the moment as “a day of joy for Kaduna State”.
“The safe return of every single victim validates our quiet but relentless efforts,” Sani says.
He explains that security agencies were immediately mobilised following the January 18 abduction, with a singular focus on rescuing all victims alive.
The governor praises President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and the DSS, Army and Police for coordinated rescue efforts.
“For us, even one abducted person is unacceptable,” Sani says. “That is why we avoided politicisation and focused on results.”
According to the governor, 11 victims were released earlier, 83 regained freedom days later, while the final 89 were rescued on Wednesday.
He confirms plans to establish a military base along the Kajuru–Kachia axis and discloses ongoing road, hospital and skills centre projects for Kurmin Wali.
The rescued worshippers will undergo medical and psychosocial evaluation before reuniting with their families.
Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna, Rev. Caleb Maaji, calls the rescue “a divine intervention”, thanking residents for sustained prayers.
Some victims recount trekking through forests for six days, but express gratitude for their survival.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Hussaini Ibrahim 