The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has criticised the manner in which security agencies handled public communication following the abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN expressed concern that the initial response from security authorities lacked due diligence and empathy. The association noted that the premature dismissal of reports about the incident, without proper verification, caused confusion and weakened public trust.
According to reports, armed bandits attacked the northern Nigerian community on Sunday, abducting more than 160 worshippers from three churches. The Nigeria Police Force initially denied that any kidnapping had occurred. However, the police later reversed that position, with spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirming on Tuesday that the attack did take place and that several people were abducted.
Reacting to the confirmation, CAN acknowledged that verifying security incidents—particularly in remote areas—can be challenging. Nevertheless, the association maintained that such difficulties do not justify shortcomings in communicating sensitive information to the public.
CAN described the initial dismissal of the reports as deeply troubling, stating that it generated confusion, heightened fear and unfairly cast doubt on the credibility of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy members and eyewitnesses who raised the alarm.
The association stressed that communication during crises of this nature must not appear dismissive of the pain or fears of affected communities. While efforts to prevent public panic are important, CAN warned that caution should not be conveyed in a manner that suggests denial or indifference.
The statement further noted that comments from senior security officials carry significant weight and must therefore be guided by care, accuracy, empathy and sensitivity, especially in situations involving threats to human life and public safety.
CAN welcomed the subsequent confirmation of the incident and commended the Inspector-General of Police for ordering the deployment of operational and intelligence resources to the affected area, describing the move as necessary and timely. However, it emphasised that such actions should be matched with a more disciplined and people-centred approach to crisis communication.
The association called on security agencies and relevant authorities to improve coordination, strengthen verification processes and treat credible reports from communities with the seriousness they deserve. It stressed that victims must be protected, genuine distress calls respected and all forms of misinformation—whether dismissive or exaggerated—avoided.
CAN also urged governments at all levels to address the country’s persistent insecurity with renewed urgency, warning that repeated attacks continue to endanger lives, disrupt religious activities and erode public confidence.
The association concluded with a heartfelt appeal for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted worshippers, praying for their safe return. It called on security agencies to intensify operational, intelligence and diplomatic efforts to ensure a swift rescue, stressing that the protection of innocent lives must remain the highest priority.
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