Kidnapped Southern Kaduna Pastor, Rev. Anthony Lamba, Dies in Bandits’ Captivity

The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has announced the death of Rev. Anthony Lamba, a pastor from Southern Kaduna who was abducted by bandits in July 2025. His death was confirmed in a statement issued by Rev. Alari Alari, Chairman of the ECWA Kasuwan Magani District Church Council (DCC).

“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Rev. Anthony Lamba, who was kidnapped on July 24th, 2025, along with his wife,” the statement read.

According to Rev. Alari, Lamba’s wife was released after the payment of a ₦5 million ransom, following further demands by the kidnappers for a motorcycle. However, before the arrangement could be fulfilled, Lamba reportedly fell ill and died in captivity.

The church expressed profound grief over the loss, describing it as another painful reminder of the growing insecurity in Southern Kaduna and across Nigeria. “Let us continue to pray for the Church of God and the family he left behind,” the statement added.

A memorial service in Rev. Lamba’s honor is scheduled to hold in his hometown, Kallah, on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Lamba was abducted alongside his wife, Christiana Anthony, and one Danlami Zana while working on their farm on July 25.

His death follows a similar tragedy involving another ECWA pastor, Rev. James Audu Issa, who was killed by terrorists in Kwara State earlier this month despite the payment of a ₦5 million ransom. Issa was taken from Ekati village in Patigi Local Government Area on August 28, 2025. After reducing their initial demand from ₦100 million to ₦5 million, the kidnappers still demanded an additional ₦45 million before killing him.