From Maryam Ahmadu-Suka, Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani yesterday received 183 worshippers freed in a joint operation between the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Kaduna state government abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, at the government house.
The victims arrived at about 1 p.m. on Thursday, escorted by operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, in no fewer than four buses.
Among them were nursing mothers, children, and elderly persons. Some were seen limping, while others broke down in tears, clear signs of the trauma endured during their captivity.
Speaking while receiving the victims, the governor said, “I can see the Commissioner of Police here with us, the Director of the DSS Kaduna State Command, representatives of the GOC 1 Division Nigerian Army, the Garrison Commander, heads of operations of the DSS, other paramilitary officers, the member representing Kaduna Constituency in the Kaduna State House of Assembly, the Chairman of Kaduna Local Government, members of the Kaduna State Executive Council, and most importantly, our very special citizens from Kurmin Wali who have just regained their freedom.
“When this unfortunate incident happened, many of us were shocked because in the last two and a half years, the Kaduna State Government has worked tirelessly with security agencies to protect lives and property. Yet, this incident occurred, and immediately we mobilised all security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe return of our people.
“At this point, I want to sincerely thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has stood with us from day one. He has called me repeatedly since this incident happened, showing deep concern and leadership. I also thank the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for working closely with us to ensure the safe return of these children and our mothers here today.”
He appreciated the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, the Inspector General of Police, and all security agencies that collaborated with the government throughout the period.
He added, “Kaduna State does not take the issue of security lightly. For us, even one person abducted is unacceptable. That is why we refused to politicise the situation or engage in media arguments over numbers. Our focus was clear — to ensure that every single person returned safely.
“Today, I can say without contradiction that all those abducted from Kurmin Wali have returned. Initially, 183 people were abducted. Eleven were released earlier and taken straight to hospital. They have been certified medically fit and have returned home. Out of the remaining, 83 returned a few days ago, while 89 were rescued just yesterday. Altogether, the figure is 183, and we would not be sitting here if even one person was still missing.”
He disclosed that following the incident, he approached the President and the National Security Adviser on the need to establish a military base around the Kajuru–Kachia axis and that the president has given his assurance that the request will be granted.
He however disclosed that in order to allow the people of Kurmin Wali who are predominantly farmers, continue their farming activities, which support both their livelihood and our economy the state government has commenced the construction of the road linking Kurmin Wali to the main road.
He noted that the government is also building a hospital and a skills acquisition centre for the community to support alternative livelihoods.
On his part, the state Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Caleb Maaji commended the state government and other security agencies for the safe return of the victims.
“We are grateful because not some of them have returned, but all of them have returned, we give it back to you. We give it back to the security agencies. On behalf of this community, we are saying thank you, thank you, thank you very much because of what you have done, and because of what God has used you to do, we will always be with you, and we are with you, not just today, but even beyond today.”
Recall that over 100 residents were abducted on January 18th, 2026 during coordinated attacks on three churches in Kurmin Wali village.
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