Church attack in Nigeria triggers dispute over hostages' rescue

KADUNA, NIGERIA: A Christian group in northern Nigeria has challenged the army's claim of rescuing 31 people abducted during an Easter Sunday attack on a church in Ariko village, Kaduna state.

Reverend John Joseph Hayab, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the northern region, said the victims remain in captivity, adding that while the military is trying to secure their release, it is "not fair for the military to claim that the victims have been rescued."

The Nigerian Army had issued a statement claiming its forces engaged gunmen in a "fierce firefight," recovered the hostages, and left behind five bodies, with the attackers suffering "significant casualties."

Local reports, however, indicate the gunmen operated for a prolonged period before facing resistance, casting doubt on the army's version.

Kidnappings and armed raids are common in northern Nigeria, where banditry and terrorists activity continue to threaten civilians. Security forces have deployed troops to track the attackers and strengthen local protection.