Gunmen attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Sunday, December 14, 2025, abducting at least 20 worshippers, Sahara Reporters reported. The assailants reportedly fired at irregular intervals during the service. Many worshippers fled, but others were captured and led away through nearby bush paths.
Residents described widespread fear and confusion as the incident unfolded. They added that the assault intensified concerns over worsening insecurity in rural Kogi communities. According to SaharaReporters, one person identified only as JayJay died during the assault.
This is the second church kidnapping in the Okun region within weeks. On November 30, 2025, armed men stormed a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, abducting the cleric Orlando and about 13 worshippers. The attackers demanded a ransom of ₦500 million, and later reduced it to ₦200 million. They gave families a two-day deadline and threatened unspecified consequences.
Residents recalled that Ayetoro Kiri faced another attack a few weeks ago, when armed men targeted a local school. Community vigilante groups reportedly repelled the assailants, preventing casualties and abductions.
Authorities are reportedly investigating the latest abduction. Meanwhile, residents are calling for stronger security measures to prevent further attacks on worshippers in the region.