Church Leaders Say Over 160 Were Kidnapped in Nigeria, but Officials Deny It

In Kaduna State, Nigeria, Christian leaders reported that over 160 congregants were kidnapped from three churches during Sunday services on January 20, 2026. According to these leaders, armed bandits stormed the churches in Kurmin Wali, abducting numerous individuals before releasing older women and young children. Representatives sent to investigate were blocked by military and government vehicles. However, government and security officials dispute these claims, stating that investigations found no evidence of the kidnappings and dismissing the reports as fear-mongering. The region has been plagued by a security crisis, with security becoming a politicized issue amid disputes over attacks on Christians. Local officials also stated that police found no evidence of the attack and that village officials disputed the incident.

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