A community group in Kaduna State has debunked reports claiming that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter Sunday service in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area, have been rescued by the Nigerian Army.
The group, in a statement issued in the early hours of Monday, April 6, described the reports as inaccurate, insisting that those taken during the attack are still being held by their captors.
New Telegraph had earlier reported that the deadly incident occurred on Easter Sunday when suspected bandits stormed the Ariko community, targeting two churches, killing several worshippers and abducting many others.
an attack that heightened concerns over insecurity in Southern Kaduna.
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Following earlier claims that troops had freed some of the victims, the President of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, J.D. Ariko, issued a statement disputing the reports.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons abducted during the Easter service in Ariko.
“We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false and misleading,” the statement read.
According to him, families of the victims remain in contact with the abductors, who have reportedly confirmed that those taken are alive and still in captivity.
“This clearly invalidates any claim of a successful rescue operation,” he added.
The community leader expressed concern over the spread of what he described as unverified information, warning that such reports could mislead the public, raise false hope among affected families, and undermine trust in official communication.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, he urged authorities to ensure that only confirmed information is released, especially on matters involving lives.
“The safe return of the abducted persons remains our utmost priority. We call on all stakeholders to intensify genuine and coordinated efforts toward securing their immediate and unconditional release,” the statement added.
The association also reaffirmed its support for the families of the victims and promised to provide updates as credible information becomes available.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to respond to the community’s claims.
