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A new spate of mass abductions targeting worshippers in northern Nigeria has reignited concern over the country’s ability to protect religious communities, even as federal authorities insist, they are making headway against armed criminal groups.

On Sunday in Kurmin Wali, a rural community in Kaduna State, armed assailants stormed multiple church services, abducting a large number of worshippers, residents and local officials say.

Conservative estimates from community leaders put the number of kidnapped at more than 160 people, with some accounts identifying as many as 177 victims taken into forests by unidentified gunmen.

The attacks targeted at least two churches, including the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and a Cherubim & Seraphim congregation with reports suggesting entire families were seized during the raids.

Conflicting official statements
Authorities have offered contrasting narratives: Kaduna State police and security officials denied any mass kidnapping occurred, calling reports “false information” and insisting no evidence supports claims of large-scale abductions. They urged those making the claims to provide verified lists of alleged victims.

However, church leaders and community chiefs have strongly disputed those denials, maintaining that worshippers were seized in broad daylight and that security forces have yet to locate them or provide transparent information on rescue efforts.

Government response and claims of victory
The federal government has repeatedly underscored its efforts to curb the wave of kidnappings and banditry that have plagued parts of northern and central Nigeria. In recent weeks Abuja enlisted a U.S.–based communications firm to help promote its measures to safeguard all citizens, including Christian communities, after international criticism over alleged religious persecution.

Meanwhile, broader security operations have seen troops increase patrols in volatile regions — including engagements that resulted in arrests and weapons recoveries — but attacks such as Sunday’s indicate the pervasive nature of the threat persists. The Nigerian army also reported an ambush in neighbouring Zamfara State that killed several security personnel, underscoring the dangerous environment in which these events unfold.