At least 13 worshippers were abducted after armed gunmen attacked the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro-Kiri community of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, during December 13th Sunday morning service. The assailants opened fire on congregants before seizing several people and fleeing the scene.
Kogi State authorities described the attackers as suspected bandits, criminal gangs increasingly linked to kidnappings for ransom across rural parts of the central state. The Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, said security forces intervened, resulting in the deaths of five attackers, with others injured or escaping.
The incident has heightened fear among residents, who said repeated violent incursions on places of worship and isolated communities are driving anxiety and population displacement. Local vigilante groups and residents have called for stronger security patrols amid concerns that bandits are exploiting dense bush and forested areas for operations.
This attack is part of a spate of violent incidents in the area, underscoring persistent insecurity challenges and signaling a need for intensified protective measures for vulnerable communities in Kogi State and adjoining zones.
