Bandits Raid Kogi Church, Kidnap Pastor, Wife and Worshippers During Service

Story: written by Zara December 1,2025
A church service in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, turned chaotic on Sunday after armed bandits stormed a newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church and abducted multiple worshippers.

Residents said the attackers invaded the church during worship, forcing congregants to flee as heavy gunfire echoed across the community. The pastor, popularly called Orlando, was seized alongside his wife and several members of the church. Eyewitnesses described the attack as sudden and frightening, noting that the exact number of abducted individuals has not yet been confirmed.

While the police have not released an official statement at the time of reporting, the Kogi State Government announced that it has intensified security operations in response to the attack. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed that security agencies and local vigilante networks have launched a manhunt to track down the perpetrators and rescue the victims safely.

He disclosed that the Yagba West local government authorities are working closely with security teams to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped worshippers. Fanwo added that the attackers are fully aware that the state will deploy every possible resource to secure the release of its citizens.

He further stated that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is personally coordinating the rescue efforts and that updates will be provided as operations progress. The government urged residents to remain alert, report suspicious activities to security operatives, and prioritise safety. Worship centres located in high-risk or isolated areas were advised to reconsider gathering in vulnerable locations until the security situation improves.