Breaking: All 183 Kurmin Wali Abduction Victims Rescued — Gov. Uba Sani

According to Ireporter Online, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has confirmed the safe return of all 183 individuals abducted from Kurmin Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area, stating that none of the victims remain missing.

The governor spoke on Friday after receiving the rescued residents at the Government House in Kaduna, emphasizing that the state collaborated closely with the federal government and security agencies to resolve the crisis.

“Today, I can affirm without contradiction that all those abducted from Kurmin Wali have returned. Altogether, the number is 183, and we would not be sitting here if even one person was still missing,” Sani said.

The abductions occurred on January 18 while worshippers were attending service. The release of the captives happened in phases: 11 were initially freed and hospitalized, 83 returned a few days ago, and the final group of 89 was rescued on Thursday morning.

Governor Sani thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his personal involvement in the rescue operation, noting that the president maintained constant communication with state authorities.

“For us, even one person abducted is unacceptable. That is why we avoided politicizing the situation or disputing numbers publicly. Our priority was ensuring the safe return of every individual,” Sani said.

The governor also revealed that he had formally requested the establishment of a military base along the Kajuru–Kachia axis, a long-standing security hotspot, and said President Tinubu has assured that the request will be granted.

In addition, the state government has initiated infrastructure projects in Kurmin Wali, including constructing an access road, with plans for a hospital and a skills acquisition center to support community recovery and development.

Governor Sani explained that the rescued victims will first receive medical and psychosocial care in Kaduna before being reunited with their families. He also appealed to residents to support security personnel, acknowledging the daily risks they face in protecting communities.

“These men and women risk their lives every day to protect us. It is unfair to question their integrity whenever incidents occur, yet rely on them when danger approaches,” he said.