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A community group in Kaduna State has rejected reports that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, were rescued by the Nigerian Army.
The group described the reports as false and misleading, maintaining that all the victims remain in captivity.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Easter when suspected bandits stormed the community, attacked two churches, killed several worshippers and abducted scores into the bush.
J.D. Ariko, President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, raised concerns over the circulating reports.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons abducted during the Easter service in Ariko. We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false and misleading.”
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He disclosed that families of the victims are still in contact with the abductors, who confirmed that those kidnapped are alive and being held at their camp.
“This clearly invalidates any claim of a successful rescue operation.”
Ariko warned that the spread of such information could mislead the public, create false hope for affected families, and weaken trust in official communication.
“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority. We call on all stakeholders to intensify genuine and coordinated efforts toward securing their immediate and unconditional release.”
The community urged authorities to prioritise verified updates on security matters, noting that the Nigerian Army had yet to officially respond to the denial at the time of filing this report.
