Kaduna – The remaining 16 worshippers abducted on May 7 by bandits at Bege Baptist Church, Madala, near Buruku in Chikun Local Government area of Kaduna State have been released.
The Kaduna State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Joseph Hayab confirmed their release to journalists on Monday.
He said they were released in Sunday, June 4 after payment of ransom and a motorcycle as part of ransom required for their release.
According to him, many of them have been reunited with their families while those with injuries are presently receiving treatment in an hospital.
It will be recalled that no fewer than 40 worshippers were abducted by bandits during church service on Sunday, May 7, 2023.
However, many of the abducted worshippers escaped, leaving behind the 16 that just regained thier freedom.
Hayab expressed gratitude to the Muslim community in the area, saying, “the Muslim community where the worshippers were abducted contributed money and bought a motorcycle as part of ransom required for the release of their Christian brothers and sisters in captivity.
“This goes to show good, caring and sincere neighbours that practically showed concern to the plight of their brothers and sisters that were abducted and their sincere wish that they return home to live together with them in peace and harmony.”
According to Rev. Hayab, the exemplary conduct shown by the Muslim community in Madala should be emulated by all in other parts of the state for a united and peaceful co-existence that is needed for the overall development of the state.
He stressed that the Muslim community have shown that one does not need to be educated before doing the needful.
He urged Nigerians to be their brothers keepers in other to eliminate all forms of insecurity in every part of the country. (vitalnewsngr.com)