Armed bandits attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Sunday, killing one person and abducting several worshippers, including pregnant women and children. The attackers struck during the service, leaving the congregation in shock and terror.
The victim, identified only as Jayjay, was shot dead during the assault. Authorities are still determining the number of victims abducted, as security operatives continue to track the assailants and rescue the captives.
Kabba/Bunu Local Government Chairman, Zacchaeus Dare, confirmed that security forces neutralized five of the bandits, but expressed concern over ongoing defiance of government advisories on large gatherings in vulnerable areas.
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“Some church leaders continue to hold extended services despite warnings from authorities about the risks of gathering in insecure zones. This only complicates efforts by security agencies to protect lives,” Dare stated.
This attack follows a similar incident on November 30, 2025, when armed men stormed a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, abducting a cleric and several worshippers. The kidnappers initially demanded ₦500 million, later reducing the ransom to ₦200 million.
Residents are urging urgent intervention from both the Kogi State Government and security agencies to safeguard lives and prevent further attacks on places of worship.