Pastor Killed, 20 Worshippers Abducted in Fresh Kaduna Attack

The United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN), also known as HEKAN, has condemned the killing of one of its pastors, Reverend Yahaya Kambasiya, and the abduction of more than 20 worshippers during a violent attack on Farin Dutse community in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

According to reports, the attack took place in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when heavily armed bandits stormed the quiet settlement, firing sporadically and causing widespread panic. Several villagers, including members of the HEKAN Church, were taken away during the assault.

In a statement issued by the HEKAN President, Reverend Dr. Amos Kiri, the church described the attack as “callous, inhumane, and wicked,” lamenting the continued targeting of Christian communities and clergy in southern Kaduna.

“With a heavy heart, I wish to inform the world of the tragic incident in Farin Dutse, Kauru LGA, where bandits attacked our pastor and other residents,” Dr. Kiri said.

Quoting a field report from the Chairman of the HEKAN Kauru District Church Council, Reverend Dauda Gambo, the statement revealed that Reverend Kambasiya was killed after trying to escape the attack.

“The bandits invaded the community at dawn, shooting indiscriminately. Reverend Kambasiya and others sought refuge in a nearby farm. Believing the attackers had left, he came out of hiding but was shot in the back. The bullet pierced through his chest, and he died instantly,” Reverend Gambo reported.

The remains of the late pastor have been deposited in a morgue as the church consults with his family on burial arrangements.

HEKAN noted that this was not the first time the church had come under attack in Kauru. On December 4, 2024, about 50 people — including another HEKAN pastor, Reverend Francis Lawal — were abducted; Lawal later died in captivity. More recently, on October 19, 2025, four members of the HEKAN Kakude Local Church were kidnapped and remain in captivity.

“The continuous attacks on our members in Kauru have become worrisome. We call on security agencies and relevant authorities to go after these bandits and rescue those abducted. Families of the victims are going through unbearable trauma,” Dr. Kiri appealed.

He further urged Nigerians to pray for the bereaved families and those still held by their abductors, asking for divine intervention in Nigeria’s worsening security situation.

“HEKAN as a church requests your prayers for the family, the Church, and the community during this trying moment. We also pray that God will intervene in our nation and bring an end to these incessant killings and kidnappings,” he added.

The church confirmed that it has officially reported the incident to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in both Northern and Kaduna State chapters, as well as to the Divisional Police Station in Kauru and other relevant authorities.