Suspected bandits on Sunday invaded a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting the pastor, his wife, and several worshippers during a morning service.
The attack, which occurred without warning, threw the entire community into panic as worshippers fled in different directions to escape the gunmen’s sporadic shooting.
Eyewitnesses said the pastor, popularly known as Orlando, was taken alongside his wife and an unconfirmed number of congregants. Residents described the incident as “terrifying,” noting that the gunmen stormed the church at a time no one expected danger.
The exact number of abducted persons had not been confirmed as of the time of filing this report.
Kogi Government Confirms Attack, Begins Manhunt
Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the attack and said the state’s security architecture had launched an intensive surveillance and rescue operation.
“The pastor of the church, his wife, and yet-to-be-ascertained members were whisked away during today’s service,” Fanwo said.
He added that security agencies, including local vigilante groups, were already working closely with the Yagba West Local Government authorities to ensure the victims are rescued unhurt.
Fanwo reassured residents that the government “will do everything possible to secure every citizen abducted,” adding that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is personally coordinating the rescue efforts.
Government Urges Vigilance
The commissioner advised residents to be security conscious and report suspicious movements, especially in rural communities. He also encouraged worship centres located in isolated areas to reconsider holding services in crime-prone zones until the situation improves.
“When you see something, say something,” Fanwo said.
The Ejiba community remains tense as families await updates on the rescue operation.
