Gunmen 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 more than 20 others, according to local sources.

The assailants reportedly arrived while a worship service was in progress. Witnesses said they fired shots into the air to sow fear, forcing congregants to scatter in different directions. Amid the chaos, several worshippers were seized. The attackers later fled through nearby bush paths, evading immediate pursuit.

Residents described scenes of panic as the attack unfolded in the usually quiet community. Many people ran for safety, while families waited anxiously for information about those taken away.

One victim, identified by residents as JayJay, was killed during the assault. The exact number of abducted worshippers had not been officially confirmed as of Monday, though community leaders said it exceeded 20.

Growing insecurity in Kogi communities

According to residents, the incident has renewed fears over deteriorating security in parts of Kogi State, especially in rural areas where armed groups have repeatedly targeted villages, schools, and places of worship.

Security analysts say attacks on churches often exploit large gatherings and limited security presence. A local security expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said such incidents underline the need for improved intelligence gathering and rapid response in vulnerable communities.

“This pattern shows that attackers are becoming bolder,” the analyst said. “Without stronger security coverage and community support, rural areas remain exposed.”

Second church attack in Okun land within weeks

Sunday’s assault was the second reported attack on a church in Okun land in recent weeks, further heightening anxiety among residents and worshippers across the area.

On November 30, 2025, armed men invaded a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, during a service. According to reports, the attackers abducted the presiding cleric, identified as Orlando, along with about 13 worshippers.

Sources familiar with that incident said the abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦500 million, later reducing it to ₦200 million. Families of the victims were reportedly given a two-day ultimatum, accompanied by threats of unspecified consequences if the demand was not met.

Previous attack repelled in Ayetoro Kiri

Residents also recalled that Ayetoro Kiri came under attack roughly three weeks earlier, when armed men targeted a local school. On that occasion, members of the community vigilante group reportedly confronted the attackers and forced them to retreat, preventing any abduction or loss of life.

Community leaders are now calling on state and federal authorities to increase security patrols and strengthen collaboration with local vigilantes to prevent further attacks.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the Kogi State Police Command on Sunday’s church attack.