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Kajuru Abductions: CAN Slams Police Over Poor Communication, Demands Release Of Victims
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of all persons abducted by bandits in the Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
CAN made the appeal after reviewing a press statement by the Nigeria Police Force confirming the abduction. While acknowledging the difficulty of verifying security incidents in remote communities, the association said such challenges do not justify lapses in communicating sensitive matters involving mass abductions and threats to human life.
In a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said the initial public dismissal of reports surrounding the incident, before thorough verification, was deeply troubling and counterproductive.
According to him, the response generated confusion, heightened fear, and unfairly cast doubt on the credibility of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy, and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm.
“In situations of this gravity, public communication must not appear dismissive of the suffering or fears of affected citizens,” Okoh said.
He noted that while preventing public panic is important, caution must not be communicated in ways that suggest denial or indifference, stressing that statements by senior security officials carry significant weight and must be guided by empathy, diligence and awareness of their impact on public trust.
CAN, however, commended the Inspector-General of Police for subsequently directing the deployment of operational and intelligence assets to the affected area, describing the move as necessary and welcome.
The association urged security agencies to strengthen coordination, improve verification processes and ensure credible community reports are treated with seriousness, adding that victims must be protected and genuine distress calls respected
CAN also called on governments at all levels to confront Nigeria’s persistent insecurity with renewed urgency, warning that recurring incidents continue to endanger lives, disrupt worship, and erode public confidence.
Reiterating its appeal, the association urged security agencies to intensify all operational, intelligence, and diplomatic efforts to ensure the swift and safe rescue of the abducted persons.
“As a national faith-based body, CAN remains committed to peace, justice and the defence of human dignity. We will continue to stand with affected communities in the pursuit of safety, accountability, and lasting security,” the statement concluded.
