A community group in Kaduna State has rejected reports alleging 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 claims as false and misleading, insisting that all victims remain in captivity.
The reaction follows earlier reports which suggested that troops had successfully rescued the worshippers kidnapped during a coordinated attack on two churches in the community on Easter Sunday.
Suspected bandits had reportedly stormed Ariko in the early hours of the celebration, attacking two Christian worship centres, killing several worshippers and abducting many others into the bush.
The incident sparked outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in Southern Kaduna.
However, in a statement dated April 6, 2026, President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, J.D. Ariko, dismissed the rescue reports, maintaining that no such operation had taken place.
He stated that families of the abducted persons are still in contact with the kidnappers, who have reportedly confirmed that the victims are alive and being held at their camp.
According to him, this development contradicts any claim that the victims have been freed.
The community leader expressed concern over the spread of what he termed inaccurate information, warning that such reports could mislead the public, raise false hope among affected families, and weaken confidence in official communication.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by security agencies to tackle insecurity, he urged authorities to ensure that only verified information is made public, especially on sensitive matters involving human lives.
He added that the safe return of the victims remains the community’s top priority, calling on all relevant stakeholders to intensify coordinated efforts toward securing their unconditional release.
The association also reaffirmed its support for the affected families and assured that updates would be shared once credible information becomes available.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official response to the denial.
