“No Worshipper Was Rescued!” — Kaduna Community Blasts Army Over ‘False’ Easter Rescue Claim

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Residents of Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have rejected claims by the Nigerian Army that 31 worshippers abducted during a deadly Easter Sunday attack were rescued, describing the military’s statement as false and misleading.

The Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA) said the reality on ground sharply contradicts the Army’s narrative, insisting that all those kidnapped during the attack remain in captivity.

Gunmen suspected to be terrorists had stormed First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church on April 5, 2026, while Easter services were ongoing. The attackers reportedly killed between five and eight worshippers and abducted several others, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

In the immediate aftermath, the Nigerian Army announced that troops responded swiftly to a distress call, pursued the attackers, and engaged them in a gun battle that forced the gunmen to abandon 31 hostages. The military also stated that one injured victim was receiving treatment, while five bodies were recovered from the scene.

But in a strong rebuttal issued on Monday, KUDA President Dr. J.D. Ariko and Publicity Secretary Hon. Manasseh Samuel dismissed the claim, saying no abducted person has returned home.

“Contrary to the reports being circulated, all the abducted persons are still in captivity with their abductors,” the statement said. “Families and representatives of the victims remain in contact with the bandits, who have confirmed the safe arrival of the victims at their camp.”

The group said families are still in communication with the kidnappers and, in some cases, ongoing negotiations are taking place—raising serious doubts about the Army’s claim of a successful rescue operation.

Frustrated residents have continued to question the military’s account, asking for proof and demanding to know the whereabouts of those reportedly rescued.

“If they were rescued, where are the victims?” a resident queried, reflecting the growing anger and confusion within the community.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigerian Army nor the Kaduna State Government has issued any clarification in response to the community’s denial, further deepening concerns over transparency and accuracy in security communications.

The incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing communities in Nigeria’s northwest, where attacks on rural areas and places of worship have become increasingly frequent, often involving killings and mass abductions for ransom.

Families of the victims remain in anguish as they await credible information about their loved ones, while calls grow louder for authorities to provide verifiable evidence in security operations and ensure accountability in public statements.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more details emerge.