Conflicting Reports Emerge on Kaduna Church Kidnappings

Reports diverge between Nigerian police and the Christian Association on the status of 177 abducted congregants from Kaduna churches. While police claim 80 have returned, CAN disputes with their own figures. The incident highlights the escalation of kidnappings in northern Nigeria, raising concerns over national security and government response.

Conflicting reports have emerged following the mass abduction of worshippers in northern Nigeria's Kaduna state. Police claim that 80 of the 177 kidnapped congregants have returned home after reportedly fleeing to nearby villages during a coordinated attack by gunmen on January 18.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), however, contests these claims, with local chairman Reverend Caleb Maaji stating that, except for 11 escapees undergoing hospital treatment, all abductees are still missing. This discrepancy underscores the ongoing tension and differing narratives between security forces and religious leaders in the region.

The kidnappings form part of a broader pattern of violence and insecurity plaguing northern Nigeria, attributed largely to armed gangs seeking ransom. This latest incident adds pressure on the Nigerian government to enhance its security measures amid international scrutiny, including criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.

(With inputs from agencies.)