By Joy Yesufu
No fewer than 80 worshippers abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have regained their freedom after escaping from their captors.
The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development on Sunday, explaining that although initial reports indicated that 177 worshippers were kidnapped during the attack, further investigation revealed that 80 victims escaped and found safety in neighbouring communities.
According to him, 86 worshippers are still being held by the bandits while expressing deep concern over attempts by some individuals to politicise the incident, stressing that affected families are still battling emotional and psychological trauma following the attack.
“Our people are passing through a very difficult period, yet some are trying to politicise our suffering,” he said.
He appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the remaining abductees.
“We are calling on the government and the military to act swiftly to ensure the safe rescue of the 86 worshippers still in captivity,” the village head added.
The Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, has assured the general public that the command would issue a detailed statement on the incident.
“The police will soon release a comprehensive report on the Kurmin Wali abduction,” Hassan stated.
