Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has clarified that 183 worshippers, not 177 as earlier reported, were abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali community, Chikun Local Government Area of the state, during a coordinated attack on January 18, 2026.

The governor disclosed the revised figures on Tuesday while receiving rescued victims at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, explaining that discrepancies in earlier reports were due to the chaotic circumstances surrounding the incident and delayed verification from affected communities.

“A total of 183 worshippers were abducted during the attack. Eleven escaped on their own that same day, leaving 172 persons initially unaccounted for,” Governor Sani said.

He added that subsequent developments led to the safe return of most of the victims through a combination of escape, negotiation pressure, and coordinated security operations.

According to the governor, of the 172 worshippers who were initially missing after the attack, 83 returned to their communities on their own, while 89 others were successfully rescued by joint security forces operating in the area.

He described the rescue operation as delicate and intelligence-driven, involving multiple security agencies working in close coordination to avoid further harm to the victims.

“The incident was unfortunate and unexpected, especially considering the proactive security measures already deployed across the state,” the governor said, while assuring residents that lessons had been drawn to prevent future occurrences.

Tinubu, Security Agencies Praised for Swift Response

Governor Sani expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention and support during the crisis, noting that federal backing played a critical role in the successful rescue efforts.

He also commended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the police, and other security formations for what he described as “exceptional collaboration and commitment to protecting innocent lives.”

“The professionalism and synergy displayed by our security agencies ensured that all rescued victims were returned alive to their families,” he stated.

Beyond security operations, the governor announced immediate developmental interventions for Kurmin Wali community, beginning with the construction of an access road to improve connectivity and response time for security agencies.

He disclosed that plans are also underway to establish a hospital and a skills acquisition centre in the community as part of broader efforts to address long-standing infrastructural deficits.

In a further security boost, Governor Sani revealed that President Tinubu has approved the siting of a military base in the area to strengthen surveillance and deter future attacks.

“This will significantly enhance security presence and ensure that such an incident does not reoccur,” he said.

Governor Sani cautioned against politicising security challenges, stressing that the Kaduna State Government remains focused on safeguarding lives and property irrespective of political considerations.

“In Kaduna State, the sanctity of human life is paramount. Security is not a political tool, and it must never be treated as one,” he warned.

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