By SUNTV Global Channel | January 24, 2026
The Nigerian military has dismissed allegations of a sluggish response to the recent mass abduction in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where more than 100 worshippers were kidnapped by armed assailants.
Residents of the community had accused security forces of failing to act swiftly after the attack, claiming troops withdrew following what they described as a weak attempt to pursue the kidnappers into nearby forests.
In response, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the claims do not reflect the reality on ground, stressing that intensive rescue operations are ongoing and being handled with utmost caution to ensure the safety of the abducted victims.
In a statement issued on Friday, Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Media Operations of the Nigerian Armed Forces, acknowledged the frustration and anxiety of affected families but reassured them that the military remains fully committed to securing the victims’ safe return.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria has duly acknowledged the apprehensions expressed by displaced residents of Kurmin Wali regarding the ongoing efforts to secure the release of their abducted family members,” the statement read.
“The safe rescue and reintegration of all kidnapped victims remains a paramount undertaking.”
Disputing claims of inaction or retreat, the military said it is working closely with other security agencies, conducting sustained, intelligence-driven operations across the area and surrounding forests believed to be hideouts of the perpetrators.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the operations involve coordinated ground patrols, surveillance missions, intelligence gathering, and carefully planned targeted actions designed to locate the kidnappers and free the captives without putting their lives at risk.
The military further explained that what some residents perceive as hesitation is, in fact, a deliberate operational strategy.
“Operational restraint in certain instances is intentional and guided by the imperative to safeguard the captives and prevent unintended harm,” the statement noted.
While declining to disclose sensitive operational details, the Armed Forces said significant progress is being made to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the abduction.
Reaffirming its constitutional mandate, the military pledged to protect lives and property and vowed to reunite the Kurmin Wali victims with their families.
The Defence Headquarters also appealed to the public for patience, cooperation, and continued support as security forces intensify efforts toward a successful and safe resolution of the crisis.
