Gunmen on Sunday, December 14, 2025, attacked a church in Kogi State, abducting no fewer than 20 worshippers during a Sunday service at the First Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses said the armed attackers invaded the church while worship was in progress, shooting into the air to instil fear and force worshippers to scatter. The sudden attack disrupted the service and sent congregants running for safety.
While many worshippers managed to escape, several others were overpowered and taken away by the assailants, who later fled the area with their captives through surrounding bush paths before help could arrive.
The attack plunged the otherwise peaceful community into chaos, with residents describing scenes of fear, confusion, and distress as the incident unfolded.
Reports indicate that one person, identified simply as JayJay, was killed during the attack. Several worshippers were also taken away by the gunmen, although the exact number of abducted victims remains unclear.
The abduction has further heightened concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kogi State, particularly in rural communities and places of worship, where repeated attacks have left residents anxious and demanding stronger security measures.
This latest incident is the second attack on a church in Okun land within weeks, deepening fear among residents and worshippers across the area.
On November 30, 2025, armed men attacked a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area of the state. During that attack, the church cleric, identified as Orlando, and about 13 worshippers were abducted while a service was ongoing.
The attackers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦500 million, which was later reduced to ₦200 million. They were said to have issued a two-day ultimatum to the victims’ families, warning of unspecified “consequences” if the demand was not met.
Residents also recalled that Ayetoro Kiri community was attacked about three weeks ago when armed men targeted a local school. On that occasion, members of the community vigilante group reportedly repelled the attackers, preventing any casualties or abductions.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Kogi State Government or security agencies on Sunday’s church attack.
