Over 20 Worshippers Abducted as Gunmen Attack ECWA Church in Kogi State

Over 20 worshippers were abducted on Sunday, December 14, 2025, after armed men attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

According to local sources, the gunmen stormed the church during an ongoing worship service and fired sporadically, causing panic among congregants. Many worshippers fled the scene in fear, while an undisclosed number were seized by the attackers, who later escaped through nearby bush paths.

The attack plunged the usually calm community into chaos, with residents reporting widespread fear and confusion as the incident unfolded. One person, identified only as JayJay, was reportedly killed during the attack, while several worshippers were taken away by the assailants.

The abduction has further heightened concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kogi State, particularly in rural communities, where repeated attacks on villages and places of worship have left residents anxious and demanding stronger security measures.

The incident is the second church attack recorded in Okun land within weeks. On November 30, 2025, armed men invaded a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, abducting a cleric identified as Orlando and about 13 worshippers during a service. The attackers initially demanded ₦500 million in ransom, later reducing it to ₦200 million, and reportedly issued a two-day ultimatum to the victims’ families.

Residents also recalled that Ayetoro Kiri came under attack about three weeks ago when gunmen targeted a local school. The assault was reportedly repelled by the community’s vigilante group, preventing casualties and abductions.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the latest church attack as investigations continue.