Survivors Recount Harrowing Ordeal in Kurmin Wali
Agony, fear, and despair continue to grip Kurmin Wali community in Afogo Ward, Kajuru Local Government Area, Southern Kaduna, following the abduction of 166 worshippers on Sunday, January 18.
Those who escaped describe scenes of terror as gunmen stormed three local churches during Sunday service, splitting into groups to seize victims. Among the affected were men, women, children, and pregnant mothers. Eleven people managed to escape, leaving 166 in captivity.
“We Thought Our End Had Come”
Village head Ishiaku Deralazumi, one of the survivors, described the ordeal as horrifying. “They assembled all of us from the three churches. They beat the men mercilessly, but spared pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children. We thought our end had come,” he said.
He recounted sustaining severe head injuries during the attack and described how the kidnappers demanded the community hand over 17 motorcycles before discussing release.
Abel Sambo, another survivor, escaped while the assailants chased fleeing worshippers. “I ran for my life, but my daughter was taken. We were in the church when gunshots rang out, and people started screaming and running,” he said, tears evident in his voice.
Amos Markus, also freed, described the operation as coordinated and ruthless. “They wore masks so no one could identify them. They collected our phones and money, and forced us to lie on the ground in another church before moving us to the bush. How I escaped, I cannot explain; it is God’s doing,” he said.
Families in Anguish
Survivors report that the abduction has left families terrified and traumatized. Many of those taken are still in captivity, with some elderly women and young children later released. Community leaders lament the recurring attacks and the devastating impact on livelihoods, education, and mental health.
Chief Sebastine A. Barde, President of the Adara Development Association, described the attack as part of a relentless cycle of terror. Isaac Tanko, youth leader of the Middle Belt Forum in Kaduna, highlighted the systemic neglect and pressure on communities not to report kidnappings, adding to the trauma experienced by residents.
Hope Amid Despair
Despite the horror, survivors cling to hope for the safe release of their loved ones. Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the military, have launched operations in Kajuru and surrounding areas. Families remain on edge, relying on prayers and the promise of rescue, while demanding accountability and urgent action from authorities.
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