After evading their kidnappers, at least 80 congregants from Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, who were kidnapped during a church service, have been returned to their families.
In an interview conducted on Sunday, Ishaku Dan’azumi, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, confirmed the news.
He elaborated by saying that later research showed that 80 attendees escaped and sought sanctuary in other areas, although earlier accounts indicated that approximately 177 congregants were abducted during the raid.
As far as Dan’azumi is aware, the bandits still have 86 devotees in their possession.
He voiced his dismay at those who are trying to turn the tragedy into a political football, saying that the families impacted are still dealing with the mental and emotional fallout.
He lamented that “some are trying to politicise our suffering” despite the fact that his people were going through a tough time.
“We are pleading with the authorities to move quickly in order to guarantee the safe release of the 86 worshippers who are still being held captive by the bandits.”
Mansir Hassan, the public relations officer for the Kaduna State Police, declined to comment when asked about the situation, but did say that a detailed statement would be released soon by the command.
“A full report on the kidnapping of Kurmin Wali will be issued by the police,” Hassan announced.