The Chairman of the Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF), Elder Sunday Oibe, has condemned the abduction of over 170 worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, describing the incident as a “rude shock” to residents who believed lasting peace had returned to the state.
Reacting to the attack, which reportedly occurred on Sunday, Oibe said the development has deeply unsettled Christians and communities across Northern Nigeria, coming at a time when confidence in improved security was growing.
“The ugly incident of the abduction of over 170 worshippers in Kurmin Wali came to us as a rude shock, especially at a time when we believed that the desired peace had finally returned to Kaduna State,” he said.
The NOSCEF chairman called on Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, to remain steadfast and committed to ensuring that all abducted victims are safely reunited with their families.
“We call on the pragmatic and hardworking Governor of Kaduna State never to relent until the last victim is brought back home safely,” Oibe stated.
While decrying the abduction, Oibe also faulted the initial denial of the incident by the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police and the Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Council, describing their response as unfortunate and avoidable.
“The earlier and unfortunate denial by the Commissioner of Police and the local government chairman is rather regrettable. Those entrusted with leadership must be careful with their statements when incidents of this magnitude occur,” he cautioned.
According to him, responsible communication by leaders is essential to restoring public confidence and strengthening ongoing security efforts.
“As we desire the restoration of peace and safety in Kaduna State, all those in leadership positions must act responsibly to genuinely support the efforts of Governor Uba Sani, whose administration has changed the narrative of governance by treating people as human beings,” Oibe said.
He further appealed to the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to support the Kaduna State Government in its efforts to restore security across the state.
“As we continue to pray for the safe return of the abducted individuals, we call on the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assist the good efforts of Governor Uba Sani in bringing lasting safety to Kaduna State,” he added.
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