Kaduna Muslim community pays ransom for abducted Christian worshippers

The Christian Association of Nigerian has said the remaining 16 abducted worshippers of Bege Baptist Church, Madala along Buruku in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have regained their freedom after spending almost a month in kidnappers� den.

Terrorists had on May 7� abducted 40 worshippers at the church but� 24� of them escaped from their abductors.

However, the CAN Chairman in the state, Rev. John Hayab, on Monday, announced the release of the remaining 16 worshippers.

This, the cleric said, was made possible by the Muslim community in the area who contributed an undisclosed amount and purchased motorcycles for the bandits as ransom, before they let go of the abducted worshippers.

While expressing gratitude to the Muslim community, Hayab, said, �The Muslim community where the worshippers were abducted contributed money and bought a motorcycle as part of the 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.

�The exemplary life shown by the Muslim community in Madala should be emulated by all in other parts of the state for a united and peaceful coexistence that is needed for the overall development of the state.�

Hayab said that the remaining 16 worshippers were released by the bandits on Sunday, and were reunited with their families.