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PETITION TO INITIATE A PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE MASS ABDUCTION OF 177 CHURCH WORSHIPPERS IN KAJURU, KADUNA STATE

PSJ UK, a United Kingdom–based Nigeria-focused Social Justice advocacy organization, formally calls on the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through the Nigerian High Commission in London and its newly appointed High Commissioner, Ambassador Amin Dalhatu, to urgently initiate a full, transparent, and independent public inquiry into the mass abduction of innocent Nigerian citizens from three (3) churches in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

PSJ UK notes with grave concern that official denials by local authorities that the attack and abductions occurred may have critically delayed response efforts. These denials, issued before thorough or even casual investigation, effectively afforded the terror-perpetrators additional time and freedom to complete their operation and escape, despite having moved a very large number of abducted persons on foot across rural terrain.

Concern of the Nigerian Diaspora and International Stakeholders

Nigerians living in the United Kingdom and across the diaspora are increasingly alarmed by the frequency, scale, and apparent escalation of kidnappings, mass abductions, and violent attacks on civilian communities in Nigeria. Many members of the diaspora have close relatives in the affected areas. Others wish to return, visit, or invest in Nigeria, aspirations now overshadowed by fear and uncertainty.

In the interest of these concerned citizens and optimists abroad, PSJ UK continues to engage in good-faith advocacy aimed at safeguarding lives and restoring public confidence. Our demand is simple and constitutional: peace, justice, accountability, and the immediate release of innocent church worshipers whose only “offence” was exercising their fundamental right to freedom of religion as guaranteed under Nigerian law.

Statement by the CEO of PSJ UK

Launching the petition, Mr. Ayo Adedoyin, the CEO of PSJ UK, stated:

“We urge the Nigerian Government to capitalize on the recent military successes achieved by our brave soldiers by taking the initiative to conduct a public inquiry into this incident.

Beyond accountability, this process is vital for rebuilding public trust and encouraging community participation as Nigeria continues its journey toward lasting peace and security.”

Why a Public Inquiry Is Necessary

There are too many unresolved questions surrounding this incident to be left to speculation, rumours, or informal narratives. Allowing silence or denial to persist only creates space for misinformation, disinformation, and public distrust.

PSJ UK therefore submits that a public inquiry is not only justified but essential.

Some Key Questions Requiring Answers

  • What exact time did the abductors enter the community?
  • Who saw them arrive, and through which routes?
  • Who witnessed the abductions as they occurred?
  • When were authorities first notified of the attack?
  • Who notified whom and through what channels?
  • Which specific authorities were alerted, and what actions did they take?
  • What safety protocols, if any, were in place for community members in the event of a major attack?
  • Why did the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu, issue a strong public denial without any verification? Did he know the statement was inaccurate, or should he reasonably have known?
  • What oversight mechanisms exist to check official excesses or misinformation by authorities?
  • Who ordered the restriction of journalists’ access to the affected community?
  • Why was there a sudden disruption of internet connectivity in Kajuru at the time of the incident?
  • What relief materials or humanitarian support were provided to the affected community?
  • What psycho-social care and trauma response has been offered to survivors and families?
  • Has the UK’s Anti-Kidnapping Fusion Cell or other international partners provided any form of technical or intelligence support?
  • What Early Warning and Early Response systems were in place prior to the attack?
  • What concrete steps will be taken to prevent recurrence.?

 

Add YOUR own question(s) that require answers to the comment box below....

#FreeOurPeople    #FreeKajuru166    #RescueKajuruAbductees

 

About PSJUK

International Organisation for Peace Building & Social Justice UK (PSJ UK) is a non-profit charity committed to advancing peace-building, social justice, human rights, and sustainable development in Nigeria. PSJ UK works through a network of partners and advocates to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and achieve a safe and secure country for all Nigerians.

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  • Busayo Omotayo
    published this page in Media Release 2026-01-23 23:07:35 +0000