Amnesty Slams Police After Delayed Confirmation of Kaduna Abductions

Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State — January 18–21, 2026

Armed gunmen stormed church services in Kurmin Wali on January 18, 2026, abducting worshippers from multiple congregations during Sunday worship. Initially, police and state officials denied the kidnappings, claiming reports were false. Days later, authorities confirmed the abductions, drawing condemnation from Amnesty International and other rights groups. The incident has intensified criticism of Nigeria’s ability to protect vulnerable communities and sparked urgent calls for improved security and accountability. [source]

Coordinated Attacks on Churches

Around mid-morning on January 18, gunmen armed with rifles and riding motorcycles entered ECWA (Evangelical Church Winning All) and at least two Cherubim and Seraphim churches in Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State. Congregants were gathered for Sunday services when the attackers blocked exits, fired into the air, and forced worshippers out of the buildings. [source]

The assailants ransacked church property and marched villagers into nearby bushland. Local leaders reported that entire families were seized, including children and elderly worshippers. [source]

Numbers Taken and Immediate Aftermath

Eyewitnesses and community leaders reported that up to 177 people were abducted. Some captives later escaped, but most remain in captivity. [source]

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) confirmed the missing worshippers, noting that whole families were taken, leaving the village almost deserted. [source]. Read also Abuja Court Moves Against Terror: 5 Suspects Tied to Bello Turji Wanted

Initial Denial by Police and Government

Immediately after the incident, Kaduna State police and government officials denied the abduction reports, calling claims of mass kidnappings “false” and “rumours.” They claimed security forces had found no evidence of missing worshippers. [source]

This denial fueled frustration among residents, survivors, and families of the abducted, who spoke publicly to counter official statements. [source]

Police Re-Verification and Delayed Confirmation

After days of conflicting reports and pressure from civic groups, the Nigeria Police Force eventually confirmed the church abductions. Authorities said earlier comments were meant to prevent panic while verifying facts on the ground. [source]

Authorities acknowledged the abductions and affirmed that joint security operations were underway to rescue victims. [source]

International and Local Criticism

Amnesty International condemned the delayed police response and earlier denials, stating that such actions “undermine public trust” and endanger lives. [source]

Other organizations, including Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria, urged government accountability, describing the abductions as part of broader security failures in central Nigeria. [source] people are reacting to this headline Powerful Airstrikes Eliminate Over 50 Terrorists in Northern Nigeria

What Happened to Survivors

Escaped survivors described harrowing scenes. Many were forced into dense bushland before slipping away. Elderly and injured worshippers received assistance from nearby towns. [source]

Community Impact

Families remain separated, with children and adults missing. Trauma and fear of future raids have caused many residents to flee permanently. [source]

Government Response and Security Operations

Police launched coordinated search-and-rescue missions. Forces are tracking suspected kidnappers and increasing patrols. Local leaders call for long-term protection measures. [source]. You may have missed this Suicide Bomber Hits Military Convoy in Borno — 5 Soldiers Killed

Broader Security Context

Nigeria faces a rise in mass kidnappings in northern and central states. Remote communities are often targeted due to minimal security presence. Experts stress the need for intelligence, infrastructure, and community policing. [source]

Calls for Accountability

Families demand transparency and updates on rescue efforts. Advocacy groups urge the release of complete abductee lists and immediate humanitarian support. [source]

Conclusion

The Kurmin Wali abductions on January 18, 2026 revealed vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s rural security. What began as denial evolved into official acknowledgment only after community pressure. Condemnation from Amnesty International underscores concerns about civilian protection. Families of the abducted await news while communities mourn and demand answers. [source]