Rescued Worshippers in Nigeria: A Triumph of Prayer and Persistence

Security services have successfully freed 166 worshippers kidnapped by gunmen at two northern Nigerian churches. The Christian Association of Nigeria credits prayer and military efforts for this outcome. Discrepancies between police and CAN reports initially clouded the narrative, but all captives are now confirmed free, according to CAN officials.

Security services have freed all 166 worshippers kidnapped by gunmen in northern Nigeria last month, according to a Christian group on Thursday.

The Christian Association of Nigeria attributes the successful operations in Kaduna state to prayer and military intervention, yet details on the rescue remain undisclosed. Despite initial conflicting reports, the Rev. John Hayab confirmed the release of all churchgoers, emphasizing no ransom was paid.

Nigerian authorities are working with the U.S. to improve security amid accusations of Christian persecution, which they deny. Additional details came from Rev. Caleb Ma'aji, who confirmed the release was recognized by the Kaduna state governor.

(With inputs from agencies.)