The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has condemned the recent abduction of 177 persons in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Chairman of the Association, Apostle Dr Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, said the kidnapping was particularly alarming as it marked the first time in the history of Southern Kaduna that worshippers from three different Christian denominations were abducted in one day while attending church services.
The Association lamented that the Kajuru incident has further compounded the spate of unresolved abductions in Southern Kaduna, especially in areas such as Kauru and Kachia, where several families are still awaiting the return of their loved ones.
SKCLA called on the Kaduna State Government, security agencies and other relevant authorities to intensify efforts towards ensuring the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted persons.
As part of its response to the incident, the Association announced a two-day fasting and prayer programme for the safe return of the Kajuru victims and others abducted across the region. The exercise, anchored on Psalm 57:2–3, is scheduled to begin on Friday and will end with a special prayer session in churches across Southern Kaduna on Sunday.
Apostle Dr Kure said the fasting and prayer reflect a united appeal to God for mercy, protection and divine intervention, noting that Christians across denominations have come together at a critical moment in the region’s history.
The Association urged Christians in Southern Kaduna and beyond to participate actively in the programme, while also calling on Nigerians to show solidarity with affected communities and the families of victims in Kajuru, Kauru, Kachia and other flashpoints.
The statement added that the Association would continue to speak out against insecurity and demand accountability and decisive action from authorities responsible for safeguarding lives and property.
