Kaduna church abduction: Bandits demand ₦250m, 20 motorcycles for 177 worshippers

 

Image - Nigerian soldiers on operation near road

As of January 27, 2026, bandits who abducted 177 worshippers in Kaduna State have demanded a ransom of ₦250 million and 20 motorcycles for their release.

The abduction occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, during morning services at three churches in the Kurmin Wali community of Kajuru Local Government Area.

Key Details of the Incident:

Targeted Churches: The attacks hit two branches of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church and the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA).

Victims: While 177 people were initially seized, 11 managed to escape shortly after the attack, leaving 166 (including women, children, and the elderly) in captivity.

Ransom Demands:

Financial: The bandits initially demanded ₦29 million to replace motorcycles they allegedly lost during military operations. As of January 27, this demand has escalated to ₦250 million.

Logistical: They also demand 20 motorcycles (increased from an initial request of 17).

Official Response: Kaduna State authorities and police initially dismissed reports of the mass abduction as "falsehood," but later confirmed the incident following verification. Security forces have since deployed tactical teams for search-and-rescue operations.