\n\nThe Kaduna State Government has officially handed over 204 rescued kidnap victims to local government chairmen, who will facilitate their reunification with families.
The handover ceremony took place on Thursday at the State Shelter Home in Kaduna, led by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe on behalf of Governor Uba Sani.
The survivors mostly from Tudun Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area (LGA), with others from Chikun, Igabi, and Kachia LGAs have completed a comprehensive programme of medical treatment and psychosocial support.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Balarabe expressed joy at seeing the survivors return to their communities. She assured them of continued government support as they reintegrate into society and resume normal life.
Among those freed were worshippers abducted from the Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru LGA on January 18, 2026. They spent 18 days in captivity before gaining their freedom.
Background of the Abduction
Suspected bandits had attacked the Kurmin Wali community, abducting 183 worshippers from three churches: Cherubim and Seraphim 1 and 2, and the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA).
According to Governor Uba Sani, 11 of the kidnapped victims managed to escape and returned home, where they received treatment. Another 83 worshippers who had fled the community during the attack were later found and brought back safely. The remaining 89 abductees were released by the bandits in the days that followed.
The governor had earlier stated that victims would not be sent home immediately after release, but would first undergo thorough medical examinations and psychosocial care at state facilities a pledge fulfilled with Thursday’s handover.
Officials Present at the Handover
The ceremony was attended by several top government officials, including:
– Sani Liman Kila, Chief of Staff to the Governor
– Rabi Salisu, Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development
– Dr. Suleiman Shuaibu (SAN), Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs
Also present were local government chairmen who received the victims on behalf of their communities: Dauda Madaki (Kajuru), Sani Abdulahi Zangon Aya (Igabi), Salasi Musa (Chikun), and the Vice Chairman of Kachia LGA.
