Barely 24 hours after the Kaduna State Security Council debunked media reports alleging the abduction of over 200 worshippers from a church in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of the state, the Nigeria Police Force last night on its X handle confirmed that an abduction incident occurred in Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area, following thorough verification by operational units and intelligence sources.
It should be noted that an emergency meeting of the Security Council held on Monday, 19 January 2026, took place in which the State Commissioner of Police was in attendance at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna. The meeting was chaired by the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani.
Consequently, in a press statement, the Force acknowledged public concern generated by initial reports of the incident and reassured citizens that the safety of all Nigerians remains a top priority.
Explaining earlier uncertainty around the report, Benjamin Hundeyin, a Chief Superintendent of Police and the Force Public Relations Officer, said the Kaduna State Security Council was convened by the governor immediately the matter was reported. During deliberations at the Government House in Kaduna, some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report—describing it as false—despite earlier police confirmation. This development, he said, necessitated caution and further verification by security agencies before issuing definitive public statements.
According to the Police, comments made by the Commissioner of Police during a media interaction were intended to prevent panic while facts were being confirmed from the field, including the identities and number of persons affected. The Force clarified that the remarks were not a denial of the incident but a measured response pending confirmation.
Following subsequent verification, the Police activated coordinated security operations in collaboration with other agencies, focusing on locating and safely rescuing the victims and restoring calm to the area.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the full deployment of critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities. The measures include the deployment of tactical units, intensified patrols, targeted search-and-rescue operations, and proactive steps to protect lives and property.
The Nigeria Police Force appealed to the public and the media to exercise patience and rely on official police communications for verified information, warning against speculation or sensational reporting that could jeopardise ongoing operations or heighten public anxiety.
The Force reiterated its commitment to keeping citizens safe and pledged to provide updates as developments unfold.
