Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged authorities to take decisive action following the reported kidnapping of congregants from churches in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
In a message posted on his official social media website on Wednesday, Obi questioned the initial denials of the occurrence and criticized security officials’ handling of information.
“Since it has now been confirmed that over 150 worshippers were kidnapped, where and how did those who denied the incident initially get their information?” he asked.
The former Anambra State governor added that leadership goes beyond holding office. “In any serious country, this would trigger decisive national action, clear communication, and visible leadership.
“Leadership is not only about grabbing power, but it is also about presence. It is about speaking when citizens are hurting, acting when lives are at risk, and showing clearly that every Nigerian life matters,” Obi said.
The former presidential candidate emphasized the urgency of securing the victims.
“We must act now to ensure that all victims are released safely and unharmed and to continue confronting decisively this persistent crisis of insecurity in our nation. Enough is enough. A New Nigeria is possible,” he said.
After initial doubt and contradicting reports, the Nigerian Police Force confirmed the kidnapping in Kurmin Wali.
While local sources claimed that several churches were attacked, Kaduna State Police Commissioner Muhammad Rabiu originally stated that troops discovered no evidence of an attack.
The Force later confirmed the event, triggering the deployment of tactical units and search-and-rescue operations under the command of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
