Kaduna Community Denies Army Rescue of 31 Easter Service Abductees
The Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA) has issued a strong rebuttal against reports circulated by the Nigerian Army claiming the successful rescue of 31 worshippers who were abducted during Easter Sunday services in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. According to KUDA, these reports are completely false and misleading, creating unnecessary confusion and false hope among affected families.
Contradictory Accounts of Easter Sunday Attack
Bandits invaded the Ariko community in the early hours of Easter Sunday, attacking two churches, killing several worshippers, and abducing numerous others. The Nigerian Army released a statement on Sunday evening asserting that troops had rescued 31 worshippers abducted from the ECWA church and recovered the bodies of five individuals killed at the scene.
However, in a detailed statement issued on Monday, April 6, the President of KUDA, Dr. Joseph David Ariko, categorically denied these claims. "We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the current situation," the statement emphasized. "Contrary to the reports being circulated, all the abducted persons are still in captivity with their abductors."
Direct Contact with Bandits Confirms Captivity
KUDA revealed that families and representatives of the victims maintain direct communication with the bandits, who have confirmed that the abducted individuals are currently at their camp. This ongoing contact directly contradicts the Nigerian Army's assertion of a successful rescue operation.
The association expressed deep concern about the dissemination of inaccurate information, particularly regarding sensitive matters involving human lives. "False reports of this nature create unnecessary confusion, give families false hope, and undermine public trust in official communications," the statement noted.
Call for Verified Information and Coordinated Efforts
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies in addressing insecurity across Nigeria, KUDA called on the Nigerian Army and all relevant authorities to ensure that only verified and factual information is released to the public. The association emphasized that the safe return of the abducted persons remains their utmost priority.
"We urge all stakeholders to intensify genuine and coordinated efforts toward securing their immediate and unconditional release," the statement continued. "We stand in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time and assure the public that updates will be provided as credible information becomes available."
The conflicting accounts highlight ongoing challenges in Nigeria's security communications, particularly in regions affected by banditry and kidnapping. KUDA's statement underscores the importance of accurate reporting in maintaining public trust and ensuring effective response to security incidents.
