CAN Slams Police Over Kaduna Abduction Response, Demands ‘People-focused’ Crisis Communication

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the Nigeria Police Force’s handling of communications around the Kajuru abductions in Kaduna State, accusing security officials of generating confusion and heightened fear through a dismissive initial response.

The statement followed police confirmation of the abduction at Kurmin Wali community in Kaduna State, an incident initially downplayed by authorities.

In a press release signed by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN expressed deep concern over the official communication lapse.

“The initial public dismissal of reports about this incident, before thorough verification, was deeply troubling. It generated confusion, heightened fear, and unfairly questioned the credibility of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy, and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm.

“In situations of this gravity, public communication must not appear dismissive of the suffering or fears of affected citizens,” he said.

The Christian association acknowledged the challenges of verifying incidents in remote areas but insisted they do not excuse lapses in how sensitive matters are communicated to the public.

“While the need to prevent panic is understandable, caution must not be communicated in ways that suggest denial or indifference.

“Statements made by senior security officials carry significant weight and should therefore be guided by due diligence, empathy, and a clear understanding of their impact on public trust and social stability,” Okoh said.

While commending the Inspector-General of Police for deploying assets to the area, CAN demanded a fundamental shift in approach.

“We call on all security agencies and relevant authorities to strengthen coordination, improve verification processes, and ensure that credible reports from communities are treated with the seriousness they deserve. Victims must be protected, genuine distress calls respected, and misinformation, whether dismissive or sensational, avoided.

“CAN also urges governments at all levels to confront the persistent insecurity across the country with renewed urgency, as repeated incidents continue to endanger lives, disrupt worship, and erode public confidence,” Okoh said.

CAN also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all those abducted, praying for their safe return, saying, “CAN makes a heartfelt appeal for the immediate and unconditional release of all those abducted.

“We pray that they are returned safely and unharmed, and we urge security agencies to intensify all efforts, operational, intelligence, and diplomatic, towards securing their swift rescue. The lives of innocent citizens must remain paramount,” he said.