Faith
Christian Hostages Taken Amid Kaduna Church Attacks
Faith Facts
- Fulani militants kidnapped 177 Christians from churches in Kaduna, Nigeria.
- At least 166 believers remain missing after the Sunday morning attacks.
- A slain Anglican priest’s wife and daughter were recently freed from captivity.
Faithful Christians in Kaduna, Nigeria, faced horrific persecution as armed Fulani militants stormed three churches, abducting entire congregations and disrupting Sunday worship. Reports show government attempts to stifle news, but local leaders confirm the truth of these ongoing attacks on believers.
Victims testified to the terror that struck two Cherubim and Seraphim churches and an Evangelical Church Winning All Sunday school, with 177 worshippers initially taken and only eleven eventually escaping captivity.
“We were in church worshipping when Fulani terrorists emerged from three directions,” testified Yunana Dauji, a church secretary. “They were armed with AK-47 rifles and surrounded the church. They warned that anyone who tried to run would be shot.”
The invaders, self-identified as Fulani, forced Christians from church buildings into the wilderness, holding them under threat of violence. Authorities, who first denied the kidnappings, have since acknowledged the devastating assault after facts were verified by security personnel.
Only days before, God answered prayers for another suffering family. The wife and daughter of a murdered Anglican priest, Reverend Edwin Achi, were rescued after months in bondage. Local church members praised the Lord for their deliverance and prayed for comfort.
“Lord we are grateful for their safe return after spending three months in captivity,” shared Kate Ebere, a church member. “It’s my prayer that God continue to console the Achi’s family, Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, and entire Anglican communion. And, may the soul of Ven. Edwin Achi continue to rest in peace.”
The local governor pledged ongoing care and support for these victims, recognizing their suffering and the need for healing. Violence against Christians remains severe in Nigeria, with Fulani militants and bandits responsible for the deaths of thousands in recent years, far surpassing other extremist groups.
Now more than ever, people of faith must lift up persecuted Christians, call for truth, and stand united in defending the God-given right to worship freely. Pray for the captives, their families, and for the restoration of safety and hope in Nigeria.