A community group in Kaduna State has rejected claims that the Nigerian Army rescued 31 worshippers whom terrorists abducted during Easter services in Ariko village.
Terrorists struck the First ECWA Church and St Augustine Catholic Church in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, in the early hours of Easter Sunday.
They surrounded the area and opened fire on worshippers.
At least seven people died and terrorists took dozens more into the bush.
Councillor Mark Bawa, who represents the ward that includes Ariko, confirmed the attack.
He said the terrorists arrived in large numbers and shot sporadically at the congregation.
The Nigerian Army later stated that its troops responded to a distress call from the ECWA Church.
Soldiers pursued the terrorists, engaged them, and recovered 31 people who had been taken hostage.
Troops also found the bodies of five worshippers killed at the scene.
However, the Kuturmi Unity Development Association issued a statement on Monday and dismissed the rescue report.
President J.D. Ariko said the claim is entirely false.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 31 persons abducted during the Easter service in Ariko,” the statement reads.
“We wish to categorically state that this claim is entirely false and misleading.”
Ariko added that families of the victims remain in contact with the terrorists, who confirm the worshippers are still alive and held at their camp.
“This clearly invalidates any claim of a successful rescue operation,” he said.
The association called for verified information from authorities and urged continued efforts to secure the release of those still missing.
The Nigerian Army has not responded to the denial so far.
