The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has raised concerns over the handling of public communication by the Nigeria Police Force following the reported abduction at Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, CAN said it reviewed the police press release confirming the incident but expressed discomfort with the initial dismissal of reports surrounding the abduction. According to the association, such premature statements created confusion, heightened public anxiety, and cast doubt on the accounts of nearly 170 worshippers, their families, clergy, and eyewitnesses who first reported the incident.
While acknowledging the difficulties security agencies face in verifying incidents in remote areas, CAN stressed that these challenges do not justify insensitive or dismissive communication on matters involving human lives. The association noted that statements from senior security officials carry significant weight and must be guided by empathy, due diligence, and an awareness of their impact on public trust.
CAN welcomed the subsequent confirmation of the abduction and commended the Inspector-General of Police for ordering the deployment of operational and intelligence assets to the affected community. However, it urged security agencies to adopt a more disciplined, people-centred approach to crisis communication, warning that poor handling of information could undermine confidence and social stability.
The association also called for stronger coordination among security agencies, improved verification processes, and greater respect for credible distress reports from communities. It cautioned against both dismissive and sensational narratives, emphasizing that victims must be protected and their concerns taken seriously.
Beyond the Kaduna incident, CAN urged governments at all levels to address the country’s persistent insecurity with renewed urgency, noting that recurring attacks continue to endanger lives, disrupt religious activities, and erode public confidence.
The Christian body appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted persons and called on security agencies to intensify operational, intelligence, and diplomatic efforts to secure their safe return.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and the defence of human dignity, pledging continued solidarity with affected communities and constructive engagement with authorities in the pursuit of lasting security.