Armed bandits on Sunday, December 14, 2025, attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing one worshipper and abducting several others.
The victim, identified simply as Jayjay, was said to have been shot dead during the attack. As of the time of filing this report, the exact number of worshippers abducted remained unclear, as security agencies and local authorities were still gathering details.
The incident marks the second attack on a church in Okun land within a few weeks, which has heightened fear among residents and worshippers across the area.
On November 30, 2025, gunmen had invaded a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, abducting a cleric identified as Orlando along with several worshippers during a church service.
In that earlier incident, the attackers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦500 million, which was later reduced to ₦200 million. They allegedly issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the victims’ families, threatening severe consequences if the ransom was not paid.
Residents further recalled that Ayetoro Kiri came under attack about three weeks earlier when armed men targeted a local school. On that occasion, members of the community vigilante group reportedly repelled the attackers, preventing casualties and abductions.
The latest attacks have renewed concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Okun land, with residents calling on security agencies and the Kogi State Government to urgently intervene to protect lives and prevent further violence.
