The Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the mass abduction of Christian worshippers in Kajuru Local Government Area of the state, describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.

Bandits reportedly stormed three churches during Sunday services on January 19, 2026, abducting about 170 worshippers. Six of the victims later escaped from captivity and returned home with varying degrees of injuries after allegedly being beaten by their abductors.

Speaking in an interview, the state CAN Chairman, Rev. Caleb Ma’aji Bawa, described the incident as “regrettable, shameful and disappointing,” noting that it occurred at a time when governments at all levels are making efforts to improve security and enable citizens to pursue their livelihoods.

Bawa expressed concern over what he described as the growing presence of criminals who “kill, abduct and destroy property without any sense of humanity,” calling the situation worrisome and unfortunate.

He offered prayers for the safe return of those still in captivity and called for divine intervention to bring an end to persistent kidnapping and other criminal activities across the country.

The CAN chairman also urged citizens to work closely with government and security agencies by providing useful information to expose criminal elements, stressing that collective condemnation of such acts is essential for peace and stability.

Bawa commended security personnel for their ongoing efforts to combat crime and encouraged them to remain vigilant in uncovering and foiling the plans of those he described as enemies of national progress.