BREAKING: Kidnapped Kaduna Worshippers Regain Freedom

Worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali community of Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have been released.

The victims were kidnapped on Sunday, January 18, 2026, while attending church services in the community.

A community leader, who spoke to Daily Trust on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the release occurred late on Wednesday night.

According to him, residents observed heavy-duty vehicles entering a forest around the Maro area between 11 p.m. and midnight, before returning with the abducted persons between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m.

“Between about 11 p.m. and 12 midnight, we were informed that large vehicles entered the forest. Later, around 1 a.m. to 2 a.m., they came out with the abducted people from the Maro axis. We do not know who went to take them or who released them. We are also not certain whether all of them were freed, but their release has been confirmed,” he said.

It remained unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure the victims’ freedom or if the 17 motorcycles reportedly demanded by the kidnappers were handed over.

LEADERSHIP had earlier reported that no fewer than 177 persons were abducted during the attack on Kurmin Wali. About two weeks later, 80 victims, mostly children, were said to have escaped and sought refuge in nearby forest settlements.

Confirming the development, the village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, expressed gratitude to the Kaduna State Government and security agencies for their efforts.

“We also received the information today that they have been released. We are happy and they are currently with the government,” he said.

Dan’azumi added that those released included children, women and adults but declined to provide further details.

A security source also confirmed the release, saying, “Yes, you are correct. They were released last night.”

As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government was yet to issue an official statement on the development.