17 Kidnapped Worshippers Die in Captivity, Four Others Still Held in Kaduna

Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria (CSWN) has disclosed that 17 worshippers abducted during an attack on three churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, in April 2026, died in captivity, while four victims abducted in a separate incident remain in the hands of their captors after more than six months.

The organisation also raised concerns over persistent attacks, killings, mass abductions, sexual violence and displacement affecting Christian communities in parts of Northern Nigeria.

CSWN Chief Executive Officer, Rev. Dr. Yunusa Nmadu, made the disclosure during a presentation at ECWA Goodnews Church in Kaduna to mark the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.

Recounting the April 5 attack in Ariko, Nmadu said gunmen invaded three churches during Sunday services, killing five people and abducting 37 worshippers, mostly women and children.

He explained that 12 abductees escaped at different times, 17 died in captivity, while the remaining eight were released after spending five months with their captors.

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Nmadu further cited the January 18 mass abduction in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area, where 177 worshippers were reportedly kidnapped from three churches during Sunday services. The victims regained their freedom after 18 days in captivity.

The CSWN chief executive alleged that Christians accounted for approximately 99 per cent of victims in some affected Northern communities, adding that persistent insecurity had forced thousands of residents to flee their ancestral homes and seek refuge in internally displaced persons’ camps.

He also raised concerns about the alleged sexual abuse, hunger, poor sanitation and other inhumane conditions endured by women and children held by armed groups.

Nmadu called for sustained prayers and advocacy for those still in captivity, particularly Leah Sharibu, who was abducted in February 2018 and has remained missing.

He urged churches, religious organisations and the wider society to intensify efforts towards securing the freedom of abducted persons and supporting survivors of persecution.