A Christian group in Nigeria has challenged the military’s claim that dozens of abducted worshippers were rescued following an attack in Kaduna state.
Truth Live News International learnt from Reuters that the, Nigerian Army said troops freed 31 people after gunmen attacked a church in Ariko village, Kachia district, on Sunday. The army also reported that five people were found dead at the scene.
However, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) rejected the claim, insisting that the victims are still being held by their captors. Northern CAN chairman John Joseph Hayab said no rescue had taken place and warned against spreading misinformation.
Local sources backed CAN’s position. The Kurtumi Unity Development Association described the army’s statement as “false and misleading,” while a former village head, Iliya Audu, said the death toll had risen to seven, with burials already conducted.
The Nigerian Army had not responded to requests for clarification at the time of reporting.
The incident adds to ongoing concerns over security in northern Nigeria, where attacks by armed groups and kidnappings remain frequent.
