Conflicting reports emerged yesterday over the alleged kidnapping of more than 170 worshippers from three churches in Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

The affected churches, reportedly including ECWA and Cherubim and Seraphim, were said to have been attacked on Sunday. According to local residents, armed assailants arrived in large numbers, fired shots to scare people away, and forcibly took congregants—including women and youths—into nearby forests. Some elderly victims were reportedly released, while the majority remained in captivity.

Rev. Joseph John Hayab, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states, confirmed the abductions, estimating 172 worshippers were taken, with nine managing to escape. He described the situation as “very tough and sad” but emphasized cooperation with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims.

However, Kaduna State Police Commissioner Muhammad Rabiu and the Kajuru Local Government chairman dismissed the reports as false. Rabiu accused “conflict entrepreneurs” of spreading the story to disrupt peace, challenging anyone claiming abductions to provide names and evidence. He warned that those spreading rumors would face legal consequences.

The situation remains unclear, with residents maintaining that coordinated attacks occurred while authorities deny any kidnapping.