17 of 37 worshippers abducted from Kaduna churches died in captivity, CSW Nigeria reveals

Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria says 17 of 37 worshippers abducted from churches in Ariko, Kachia LGA, Kaduna State, on April 5, 2026 died in captivity, while eight were freed after five months and 12 escaped.

At least 17 worshippers abducted during attacks on three churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, died in captivity, while eight others were freed after five months, Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) Nigeria has disclosed.

CSW Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Rev. Dr Yunusa Nmadu, made the disclosure at ECWA Goodnews Church, Kaduna, during a presentation marking the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, themed “Light in the Darkest Places.”

He said 37 worshippers were abducted when gunmen attacked the churches during Sunday services on April 5, 2026. Twelve escaped at different times, 17 died in captivity and eight were released.

Nmadu also said 11 people were abducted in Awon village, Kachia LGA, on April 20. One escaped, six were confirmed dead, and four remained in captivity in critical condition. He recalled the January 18 abduction of 177 worshippers in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru LGA, who were freed after 18 days.

He alleged that male and female captives were held in separate camps, with women, including nursing and elderly mothers, subjected to sexual violence, and captives often starved. He also noted that Leah Sharibu, abducted in February 2018, remains in captivity.