Kaduna: CAN Bemoans Assault On Christians; As Bandits Abduct 40 Worshippers, Emir’s Nine Children

By Ayodele Oni

Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN) has bemoaned the continued onslaught on Christians in Kaduna state noting that Christians in the State are embattled “species”  who round the clock are either killed or kidnapped.

CAN disclosed that  just last Sunday, no fewer than 40 worshippers were kidnapped at Bege Baptist Church, Madala, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna state.

CAN chairman in Kaduna State, Rev. John Hayab, told newsmen that the incident happened at about 9.30 am when the worshippers were in the service in the church, which is along Buruku Baringi Road.

“The worshippers were in the Sunday service in the church when around 9:30 am they heard gunshots very close to the church. The gunmen attacked the church and went away with 40 worshippers.”

The CAN chairman explained that 15 of the kidnapped congregants managed to escape, while the bandits went away with the remaining 25.

“Along the way, somehow, 15 of the kidnapped persons returned, remaining the rest 25 who are presently in captivity without any word from their abductors.

“Efforts are being made to get in touch with the abductors concerning the remaining people; we pray that the abductors would be merciful to release the remaining 25 back to their families.”.

In another operation, Gunmen suspected to be bandits stormed the palace of the Emir of Kagarko in the southern part of Kaduna State, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, and took away nine of his children, grandchildren and three others in the town.

Report said the gunmen stormed the area around 11:15 pm and headed straight to the Emir’s residence.

“They took away his youngest wife, nine children and grandchildren, but the wife escaped and returned back home.”

The gunmen also reportedly took three other persons, including a lady and injured one Audu Kwakulu of Ungwan Pah who is now at the hospital receiving treatment.