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By Oscar Okhifo
Kaduna State authorities have dismissed reports of a mass kidnapping in Kajuru, describing the claims as falsehoods spread to sow panic.
Police Commissioner Alhaji Muhammad Rabiu and the Chairman of Kajuru Local Government, Dauda Madaki, said no worshippers were abducted and warned rumour mongers to desist.
Speaking to journalists on Monday after a State Security Council meeting at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, Rabiu urged anyone behind the circulating story to provide the names and details of the supposed victims, emphasizing that no credible evidence had emerged.
Observers and community members condemned the spread of fake news, noting that the intentions of those behind such rumours are usually to create crisis and panic.
They stressed that until authorities recognize the dangers of fake news and enforce relevant laws to curb it, the menace will persist, and that crises ultimately harm everyone.
Kajuru Local Government Chairman, Dauda Madaki, also confirmed that security forces were deployed to the area following the rumours, but no attack or abduction was found.
“We visited the church where the alleged kidnapping took place. There was no evidence of any attack,” he said.
“I spoke with the village head, Mai Dan Zaria, and the local youth leader, Bernard Bona, both of whom confirmed that nothing happened. I challenge anyone to produce a list of kidnapped individuals, no one has come forward.”
Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shauibu (SAN), added that leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other religious figures had engaged with the community and confirmed that the reports were entirely false.
He reiterated that the Kaduna State Government maintains zero tolerance for criminality and advised residents to remain calm, continue with their lawful activities, and report any suspicious movements or rumour mongers to security agents.