The Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA) has rejected the claim by the Nigerian Army that 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in the Ariko community, Kachia LGA of Kaduna state, had been rescued, describing it as false.
Bandits had attacked the community on Sunday, invading three churches, killing six people, and abducting 36 others.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the army said its troops acted on a distress call about the abduction at an ECWA Church during the Easter service.
“The troops, on receipt of the information, promptly mobilised to the scene. With the support and guidance of members of the Ariko community, they advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, overwhelming them with superior firepower,” the army said.
“The pressure mounted by the advancing troops forced the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.”
However, in a statement issued on Monday and jointly signed by J.D. Ariko, the president of KUDA, and Manasseh Samuel, its publicity secretary, the association said the army’s claim is “misleading and does not reflect the current situation.”
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons who were abducted by bandits during the Easter service in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State,” the statement reads.
“We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false, misleading, and does not reflect the current situation.
“Contrary to the reports being circulated, all the abducted persons are still in captivity with their abductors.
“The families and representatives of the victims remain in contact with the bandits, who have confirmed the safe arrival of the victims at their camp.”
The group warned that such inaccurate reports create confusion, give families false hope, and weaken public trust, calling on the army to share only verified information, especially on sensitive matters.
It said the safe return of the abducted persons remains its “utmost priority” and urged all stakeholders to “intensify genuine and coordinated efforts toward securing their immediate and unconditional release.”
“We stand in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time and assure the public that updates will be provided as credible information becomes available,” the group said.
