By Peter Omopo
A community group in Kaduna State has dismissed reports claiming that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, have been rescued by the Nigerian Army.
The group described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that all the abducted victims remain in captivity.
The denial follows earlier claims that troops had successfully freed victims kidnapped during a coordinated attack on two churches in the community on Easter Sunday.
Suspected bandits had reportedly invaded Ariko in the early hours of the celebration, attacking worship centres, killing several persons, and abducting others into the bush, a development that heightened concerns over insecurity in the region.
In a statement dated April 6, 2026, President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, J.D. Ariko, said there was no truth to the rescue claims.
He stated that families of the victims remain in contact with the abductors, who have reportedly confirmed that the victims are alive and still being held.
The community leader warned that the spread of inaccurate information could create confusion, give false hope to affected families, and undermine public trust in official communication.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by security agencies to address insecurity, he urged authorities to ensure that only verified information is made public, particularly on sensitive matters involving lives.
The association also called on relevant stakeholders to intensify coordinated efforts to secure the safe and unconditional release of the abducted worshippers.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to issue an official response to the claims.
