Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has confirmed that 82 of the residents abducted during an attack in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area, have regained their freedom and are now receiving medical and psychosocial care, officials said.
On January 18, 2026, gunmen attacked Kurmin Wali in Kaduna State, reportedly abducting a group of worshippers attending services at three churches in the community. Initial reports said a total of 177 people were taken during the incident.
The Nigeria Police Force initially denied the abduction, but subsequent confirmations by authorities acknowledged that the attack occurred and that many of those taken had not yet been accounted for.
Governor Uba Sani confirmed the return of the 82 freed abductees during a visit to the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna’s state capital, where the former captives are undergoing health checks and psychosocial support.
The governor extended sympathy to the victims and their families and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending banditry and kidnapping across Kaduna State. He said efforts would continue to secure the release and safe return of victims still in captivity.
Sani also commended security agencies for their response and urged residents to cooperate with authorities to restore peace and safety in affected areas.
The release of 82 abducted residents provides some relief to families and communities affected by the Kurmin Wali attack, though some individuals reportedly remain missing from the original abductions.
The ongoing care provided at the shelter aims to address both physical and psychological needs of those who have returned.
Authorities continued focus on security operations highlights the state government’s strategy to reduce incidents of mass kidnappings and bolster safety measures across Kaduna State.
