17 Abducted Kaduna Worshippers Died in Captivity, CSW Says

Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria said 17 of the 37 worshippers abducted during attacks on three churches in Ariko, Kaduna State, on April 5, 2026, died in captivity; 12 escaped and eight were released after five months. CEO Rev. Yunusa Nmadu also reported that six of 11 people abducted in Awon on April 20 were killed, while four remained captive six months later. He recalled the January abduction of 177 worshippers in Kurmin Wali, who were released after 18 days, and said insecurity had restricted worship and forced thousands of residents to flee. Nmadu also alleged that captives faced sexual violence, food and water deprivation, and other inhumane treatment.