In a horrific incident on Sunday, more than 160 worshippers were kidnapped from at least two churches in Nigeria during Sunday services. This attack, reportedly carried out by armed gangs, has sparked widespread concern over the ongoing wave of religiously motivated kidnappings in the country. While initial reports from Kaduna state police indicated that dozens of individuals were being held captive, Reverend John Hayab, a senior church leader, confirmed that the number of abducted worshippers exceeded 160.
The mass kidnapping, which targeted both Christian and Muslim worshippers, highlights the escalating threat posed by armed gangs, particularly those associated with Fulani militants, who are known for their violent actions in northern and central Nigeria. These groups often carry out attacks to force Christian communities into financial hardship while extorting ransom payments.
Attack Details and Abduction Estimates
According to security reports, the gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons attacked two churches in the village of Kurmin Wali, located in Afogo ward of Kaduna state, at approximately 11:25 a.m. on Sunday. The assailants abducted worshippers during services, a common tactic in Nigeria’s long-running series of mass kidnappings that has plagued the country for years.
While early estimates from security agencies tend to be conservative, community and religious leaders report significantly higher numbers of victims. Reverend John Hayab, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, reported that 172 worshippers were abducted, with nine managing to escape. However, as is often the case in Nigeria, these numbers are subject to change as the investigation continues.
A Surge in Kidnappings Amid Religious Tensions
This kidnapping is just one of many in a surge of violent attacks in Nigeria, particularly targeting religious institutions. Armed gangs, often linked to Islamist militant groups, continue to operate from rural enclaves and forests, making it difficult for authorities to contain the violence. Villages, schools, and places of worship have become frequent targets for kidnappings, which are often accompanied by ransom demands.
In 2025, Nigeria was named the epicenter of global killings of Christians by the Open Doors World Watch List. While Muslims are also victims of these attacks, the report highlighted that Christians are disproportionately targeted. The surge in kidnappings is part of a broader pattern of religious violence that has deeply impacted Nigeria’s communities.
Security Forces and Ongoing Efforts to Free the Victims
In response to the abductions, security forces, including the military, have been deployed to the area. Police and military personnel are working together to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims. However, the situation remains fluid, and efforts to combat this violence continue to face significant challenges due to the heavily armed nature of the perpetrators.
Impact on Local Communities and National Security
The rise in mass kidnappings has left communities in fear, with many individuals and families fleeing to refugee camps for safety. In addition to the emotional toll, these attacks have had significant economic consequences, particularly in areas like Kaduna, where businesses and educational institutions are disrupted by the violence.
The abduction of schoolchildren, including the 52 Catholic students kidnapped in November, continues to make headlines as armed groups target educational institutions in their pursuit of ransom. In some cases, churches and other religious organizations have been forced to pay substantial ransoms to secure the release of kidnapped members.
