In the wake of the mass abduction of 177 worshippers in the Kurmin Wali community of Kajuru Local Government Area, stakeholders are demanding immediate action from the Nigerian government. The incident, initially denied by local authorities, has drawn ire from various groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU).
Reports indicate that bandits abducted worshippers from three churches in the community. Despite this, officials from the Kaduna State Police and the local government initially dismissed the incident as a rumor, prompting widespread outrage.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, eventually acknowledged the abduction, contradicting earlier statements from local authorities. The ACF expressed disappointment over the government’s handling of the incident, criticizing the denial as a “messy public communication approach.” Prof. Tukur Muhammad Baba, the ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, emphasized that the abduction raises significant security concerns at a critical time for Nigeria.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh condemned the police’s careless handling of the situation, asserting that such negligence compromises public trust and worsens the existing security crisis. He called for a more compassionate approach to crisis communication and proposed strengthening coordination among security agencies to ensure efficient action in emergencies.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State visited the affected community, assuring residents that the government is collaborating closely with security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted individuals. He reiterated the state’s commitment to protecting lives, regardless of the number involved in such incidents.
The Adara Development Association (ADA) criticized local officials for downplaying the abduction, accusing them of suppressing the truth. They provided a detailed breakdown of the victims, demanding a public apology and accountability for the handling of the incident.
Security forces face mounting pressure to intensify their rescue operations as community groups and religious leaders emphasize the urgent need to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity and protect vulnerable populations.
