The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the abduction of over 100 worshippers in Kurmin Wali community of Kaduna State, hours after dismissing report of the incident.
Gunmen had on Sunday attacked three churches in the community and abducted about 167 worshippers during church services.
However, on Monday, the Kaduna State Police Command described the reports as false, accusing unnamed “conflict entrepreneurs” of spreading misinformation aimed at destabilising the state.
Following the police denial, Christian Solidarity Worldwide–Nigeria (CSW-N) maintained that the abductions occurred and accused security operatives of obstructing independent verification efforts.
The rights group alleged that security personnel prevented its team from accessing Kurmin Wali during a fact-finding visit, despite presenting valid identification.
Kaduna State lawmaker, Usman Danlami Stingo disclosed that at least 168 people were missing following the attack.
Reverend John Hayab, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in northern Nigeria, said that 172 worshippers were kidnapped during church services, adding that nine later escaped, leaving 163 people still unaccounted for.
Residents said the attackers later issued demands, insisting on the return of 10 motorcycles allegedly hidden in nearby bushes as a condition for releasing the captives.
Community members say they do not know the whereabouts of the motorcycles and are already struggling with extreme poverty following repeated attacks.
Police confirm abduction
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Benjamin Hundeyin, force public relations officer, said the confusion arose after a meeting of the Kaduna State Security Council convened by Governor Uba Sani.
Hundeyin explained that some representatives from Kajuru LGA disputed the abduction claims during the meeting, describing them as unfounded.
He said remarks earlier made by the commissioner of police were intended to prevent public panic while verification was ongoing and were not meant to deny that an incident occurred.
“Subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has confirmed that the incident did occur,” the statement said.
Hundeyin disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units and intelligence assets to Kajuru and neighbouring communities.
He said the operation includes intensified patrols, targeted search-and-rescue missions, and other proactive measures to protect lives and property.
The police spokesman urged the public and the media to rely on official police communication for verified information and to avoid speculation that could undermine rescue efforts, adding that updates would be provided as investigations continue.
The incident is the latest in a surge of mass kidnappings across northern and central Nigeria, where armed gangs, locally referred to as “bandits” frequently raid villages and abduct civilians for ransom.
In November, more than 300 students and teachers were kidnapped from a Catholic school in Niger State, with dozens escaping and others released weeks later.