Over 160 Worshippers Abducted in Northern Nigeria Church Raid; Survivor Describes Bloody Escape
January 23, 2026
A church in Kurmin Wali, northern Nigeria, was attacked on Sunday, leaving more than 160 people kidnapped. The raid hit three churches, including the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church. One survivor, Sarah Peter, described the horror. She said, "Blood was all over" after a gunman hit her head with a rifle. Despite her injury, she hid and crawled back to the village. Eleven people escaped, but most remain missing. Kurmin Wali lies near Kaduna state’s Rijana forest, a known base for armed gangs called "bandits." These groups often carry out kidnappings for ransom. Authorities have not reported any ransom demand this time. Officials initially denied the attack, causing confusion. The village head said residents live in constant fear, and some accuse authorities of trying to hide facts. Governor Uba Sani visited three days after and promised a military base, hospital, road, and relief aid. He said, "We are with them and… we will not let any of them down." As rescue efforts continue, the villagers anxiously await the safe return of their loved ones.
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Tags:
Nigeria
Church Abduction
Kidnapping
Kurmin Wali
Bandits
Security Crisis
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