Coordinated Church Attacks Leave Over 150 Worshippers Abducted in Northern Nigeria

A series of coordinated attacks on Sunday morning has resulted in the abduction of more than 150 Christian worshippers from three churches in the Kurmin Wali community of Kaduna State, according to local officials and community leaders.

The kidnappings occurred while services were underway at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), a Cherubim and Seraphim congregation, and a local Catholic church. Witnesses described scenes of panic as armed men stormed the buildings, firing into the air and forcing congregants into nearby forested areas.

Conflicting Numbers, Shared Fear

Early reports indicate varying tallies of those missing — a common challenge in remote regions where communication is limited.

• A local lawmaker, Usman Danlami Stingo, stated that 177 people were initially unaccounted for, with 11 later returning, leaving 168 still missing.
• The Christian Association of Nigeria reported 172 abducted, with nine escaping, placing the number still held at 163.

Police confirmed that “dozens” had been taken but said the remoteness of the area and poor road access were delaying accurate assessments.

Security Response Underway

Security forces, including army units and special police teams, have been deployed to track the abductors and attempt rescues. Authorities say the attackers were heavily armed with “sophisticated weapons” and likely operated from forest hideouts commonly used by armed gangs in the region.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

A Pattern of Violence

Mass kidnappings have become increasingly common in northern Nigeria, where criminal gangs and extremist groups exploit weak security infrastructure and difficult terrain. Churches, schools, and rural communities have been frequent targets.

The Nigerian government has rejected international claims that the violence constitutes a “Christian genocide,” insisting that the crisis affects multiple religious and ethnic groups across the region.

Wider Regional Tensions

The attack comes amid heightened international attention on northern Nigeria. Recent U.S. military strikes in Sokoto, allegedly targeting Islamic State affiliates, have intensified debate about the nature of the violence and the government’s response.

Community in Mourning and Uncertainty

Families in Kurmin Wali have gathered in makeshift shelters and church compounds, awaiting news of their loved ones. Local leaders have appealed for calm while urging authorities to intensify rescue efforts.

Humanitarian groups warn that prolonged captivity increases the risk of abuse, ransom demands, and further instability in the region.