Worshippers kidnapped from churches in Kurmin Wali town in the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have been released, Daily Trust has learnt.

The victims were whisked away while attending church service in the community, on January 18, 2026.

A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the release took place late Thursday.

He explained that between 11 p.m. and midnight, heavy-duty vehicles were seen moving into a forest around Maro town, and later returned with the abducted persons between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m.

“Between about 11 p.m. and 12 midnight, we were informed that large vehicles entered the forest, and later, around 1 a.m. to 2 a.m., they came out with the abducted people from the Maro axis. We do not know who went to take them or who released them. We are also not certain whether all of them were freed, but their release has been confirmed,” he said.

It was not immediately clear whether any ransom was paid to secure the release of the victims or whether the 17 motorcycles demanded by their abductors were given.

It would be recalled that at least 177 people were abducted during the attack on Kurmin Wali.

About two weeks later, 80 victims, mostly children, reportedly escaped during the attack and found refuge in forest settlements.

Confirming the development to Daily Trust the village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, thanked the state government and security agencies for their efforts in ensuring the safe return of the victims.

“We also received the information today that they have been released. We are happy and they are currently with the government,” he said.

Dan’azumi added that those released included children, women and adults, but declined to give further details.

A security source also confirmed the release to Daily Trust, saying, “Yes, you are correct. They were released last night.”

As at the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government had not issued any official statement on the release.

It was learnt that they were being taken to Government House, Kaduna, for debriefing. (Daily Trust)

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