The Kaduna State Police Command has debunked claims that over 100 worshippers were kidnapped in Kajuru Local Government Area, insisting that the reports are entirely false.
Commissioner of Police Muhammad Rabiu described the allegation as a deliberate fabrication, blaming what he called “conflict entrepreneurs” for spreading misinformation aimed at creating panic and instability in the state.
The rumour, which gained traction on Monday, alleged that armed bandits invaded a church service in Kurmin Wali village on Sunday and abducted more than 100 congregants, triggering widespread concern among residents.
However, addressing journalists after a State Security Council meeting at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Rabiu dismissed the reports and demanded proof from those promoting the claims.
He cautioned the public against believing unverified information and warned that individuals found responsible for circulating false narratives would face the full weight of the law.
The police chief further challenged anyone insisting that the incident occurred to present the names and particulars of the alleged victims to substantiate their allegations.
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Also addressing the issue, the Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Dauda Madaki, said he immediately mobilised security personnel to the community after hearing about the alleged attack.
He explained that investigations conducted at Kurmin Wali revealed that no kidnapping took place.
“We visited the church where the so-called kidnap took place. There was no evidence of any attack. I asked the village head, Mai Dan Zaria, and he confirmed that no such attack occurred.
“I also called the youth leader of the area, Bernard Bona, who was interviewed by the press team that accompanied me, and he said that nothing of the sort happened.
“So, I challenge anyone to provide the names of the kidnapped individuals. I have been waiting for this list, but no one has come forward.
“I believe the rumour of the kidnap is being sponsored by people who are unhappy with the relative peace Kajuru has been enjoying since the coming of this administration,” Madaki stated.
He further appealed to residents of the area to remain calm and continue their normal activities, while encouraging them to report any suspicious persons or activities to security agencies.
The Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shauibu (SAN), also corroborated the findings of security operatives.
According to him, religious leaders, including the state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), had visited the area and engaged with residents.
“They found out that what was circulated to the public was completely false,” he said, adding that “Kaduna State Government has zero tolerance for criminality.”
Authorities have therefore urged the public to disregard the kidnapping reports and rely only on verified information from security agencies.
