Abuja, January 21, 2026 — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Kaduna State Government and the Nigeria Police Force of attempting to cover up the mass abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party described the initial denial of the incident as a dangerous obsession with public relations rather than a commitment to addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
The ADC said the abduction, which was first dismissed by authorities but later confirmed after public outcry, raised serious concerns about transparency and trust in government during security emergencies.
According to the party, withholding or denying verified information during a crisis undermines rescue efforts, delays response, and deepens public fear. It argued that truth is critical in emergencies, noting that silence or falsehood by authorities places lives at further risk.
The party also expressed concern over reports that journalists, civil society organisations and independent observers were restricted from accessing affected communities, suggesting an attempt to suppress information rather than confront the crisis.
“The denial of verified accounts from families, community leaders and religious bodies erodes public trust, which is essential for effective security operations,” the statement said.
The ADC further criticised what it described as contradictions in Kaduna State’s security approach, noting that while officials were quick to deny the abduction to maintain an image of peace, the same government had publicly acknowledged negotiations and concessions to bandits.
It warned that such an approach, though it may produce short-term results, ultimately rewards criminality and leaves law-abiding citizens exposed to further attacks.
The party also faulted the Federal Government for what it termed “stone silence” over the incident, saying the lack of response reflected fatigue and denial in the face of persistent insecurity.
Calling for action, the ADC demanded immediate and transparent rescue efforts for all abducted persons in Kurmin Wali and across Kaduna State. It also called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the initial denial of the abduction and the roles played by security and government officials.
In addition, the party urged the lifting of all restrictions on journalists and civil society groups seeking access to conflict-affected areas, and demanded full disclosure of any agreements or negotiations entered into with armed groups, including their legal basis and oversight mechanisms.
“No Nigerian should have to beg their government to acknowledge their suffering,” the statement said, adding that the party stood with the people of Kaduna State and Nigerians who believe leadership must be rooted in honesty, responsibility and the protection of life and dignity.
