Nigeria: Kaduna abduction survivors recount weeks of horror

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Survivors of the mass abduction at Kurmin Wali village in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have shared harrowing experiences of their three-week captivity in the hands of bandits. The victims, kidnapped from churches on January 18, 2026, described hunger, beatings, threats, and nights spent in the open forest.

A female survivor, holding her baby, said they were fed only four times with raw corn flour mixed with water. “We slept in the open and were always relieved when the wind blew because it helped keep mosquitoes away,” she added. The kidnappers seized their phones and constantly threatened them, creating an atmosphere of fear.

Another male survivor thanked the Kaduna State Government, military, and security agencies for securing their release. “We really suffered in captivity, but it’s comforting that authorities have promised improved security presence, better roads, and infrastructure in our community,” he said.

All 183 abducted persons have regained freedom. Governor Uba Sani, while receiving the survivors, described the occasion as a day of joy and thanksgiving, stressing security remains a top priority. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security agencies, and stakeholders for their support in securing the victims’ release.

The state government has requested a military base around the Kajuru–Kachia axis, and the rescued victims will undergo medical examinations and psychosocial support before returning home. The government will also assist them in rebuilding their livelihoods.

[2/6, 4:48 AM] Meta AI: *Kaduna Abduction Survivors Recount Three Weeks of Horror in Bandits’ Den*

Survivors of the mass abduction at Kurmin Wali village in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have shared harrowing experiences of their three-week captivity in the hands of bandits. The victims, kidnapped from churches on January 18, 2026, described hunger, beatings, threats, and nights spent in the open forest.

A female survivor, holding her baby, said they were fed only four times with raw corn flour mixed with water. “We slept in the open and were always relieved when the wind blew because it helped keep mosquitoes away,” she added. The kidnappers seized their phones and constantly threatened them, creating an atmosphere of fear.

Another male survivor thanked the Kaduna State Government, military, and security agencies for securing their release. “We really suffered in captivity, but it’s comforting that authorities have promised improved security presence, better roads, and infrastructure in our community,” he said.

All 183 abducted persons have regained freedom. Governor Uba Sani, while receiving the survivors, described the occasion as a day of joy and thanksgiving, stressing security remains a top priority. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security agencies, and stakeholders for their support in securing the victims’ release.

The state government has requested a military base around the Kajuru–Kachia axis, and the rescued victims will undergo medical examinations and psychosocial support before returning home. The government will also assist them in rebuilding their livelihoods.