The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has faulted the manner in which security agencies communicated with the public over the abduction incident in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said that while it understands the difficulties involved in verifying security reports in remote locations, the initial public dismissal of the incident before thorough confirmation was inappropriate and damaging.
According to the association, the response generated confusion and distress, while casting doubt on the credibility of worshippers, families and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm. CAN stressed that efforts to prevent public panic must not appear as denial or indifference, particularly in cases involving threats to human life.
The apex Christian body noted that statements by senior security officials carry significant weight and should therefore be guided by empathy, caution and an awareness of their impact on public trust.
CAN welcomed the subsequent confirmation of the incident and the deployment of security assets ordered by the Inspector-General of Police, but insisted that future crisis communication must be more people-centred. It also called for stronger coordination among security agencies and urged authorities to confront the country’s worsening insecurity with greater urgency.
Police confirms abduction incidence
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that an abduction did occur in Kurmin Wali following verification by operational and intelligence units.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police said they recognised the fear and anxiety such incidents cause and reiterated that the safety of citizens remains a top priority.
The police explained that after the initial report, the Kaduna State Security Council was convened by the Governor, during which some individuals from the affected area disputed the incident despite earlier police confirmation.
Comments earlier made by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, were intended to prevent unnecessary panic while facts were being established, and were not a denial of the incident, the statement said.
Following confirmation, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the deployment of tactical units and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities. The police said coordinated operations, including intensified patrols and search-and-rescue efforts, are ongoing to secure the release of the victims and restore calm to the area.
