KEY POINTS

• 204 kidnap victims abducted from churches in Kajuru were rescued in stages and reunited with families after rehabilitation.
• Survivors received medical treatment and psychosocial care to aid recovery from injuries and trauma.
• Kaduna government promised new infrastructure, livelihood support, and enhanced security measures for the affected community.

The government of Kaduna State has reunited 204 residents who were abducted during a January attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru local government area.

The victims were kidnapped on January 18 when armed bandits stormed three churches, Evangelical Church Winning All, Haske Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, and Albarka Cherubim and Seraphim, seizing 177 worshippers, including women and children.

Shortly after the attack, 11 captives escaped, leaving 166 in the hands of their abductors.

The village head reported on February 1 that 83 victims regained freedom through a mix of personal escapes, community intervention, and security operations.

On February 6, Governor Uba Sani announced the successful rescue of the remaining 89 hostages through a coordinated security operation.

According to him, victims released in phases received immediate medical care and psychological support to treat injuries and trauma from their captivity.

Medical Care and Reintegration Support

Authorities disclosed that all survivors underwent medical screening and therapy at state facilities before being reunited with relatives.

At the official reunion ceremony held at the Government House, Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe represented the governor and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to helping the victims rebuild their lives.

Beyond the reunions, the state pledged infrastructure and security improvements for Kurmin Wali.

These include constructing an access road, establishing a healthcare centre, providing targeted support for farmers and local businesses, and advocating for a military base in the area to prevent future attacks.