Armed Men Kidnap 13 Worshippers During Church Service in Central Nigeria
Attack marks second abduction incident in Kogi State within two weeks, raising concerns over security in rural Nigeria
- Armed men kidnap 13 worshippers during a Sunday service at a church in Kogi State
- The incident follows a similar abduction in nearby Ejiba, escalating security concerns
- Criminal gangs continue to target rural communities, despite ongoing security efforts
At least 13 people were abducted after armed men stormed a church during Sunday service in Kogi State, central Nigeria, marking the second such attack in the area within two weeks.
The assailants targeted Evangelical Church Winning All in the rural community of Aaaaz Kiri, opening fire before seizing several congregants and fleeing the scene.
Kogi State Information Commissioner Kingsley Fanwo reported that five of the attackers were killed in a security response, while others escaped despite sustaining injuries. Authorities described the perpetrators as “bandits,” a term commonly used in Nigeria for criminal gangs that carry out kidnappings for ransom.
The incident follows a similar attack two weeks earlier in Ejiba, where gunmen abducted a pastor, his wife, and several church members. Despite ongoing efforts by security agencies, the victims remain in captivity. Fanwo noted that intensified military operations in neighbouring Niger and Kwara states have pushed armed gangs further into Kogi State.
The latest abduction underscores Nigeria’s worsening security situation, particularly in central and northwestern regions, where kidnappings, village raids, and attacks on places of worship have surged. A particularly severe recent attack occurred in late November, when over 250 children and 12 staff members were reportedly abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.
While the government has previously attributed some attacks to jihadist groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province, analysts say most recent incidents are perpetrated by criminal gangs motivated by ransom rather than ideology. In response, President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify intelligence-led operations and deployed additional troops and police to high-risk areas.
Authorities say joint military and police task forces have dismantled several armed groups in recent weeks, but attacks continue, particularly in rural communities where security presence is limited and emergency responses are slow.
