Bandits Invade Church in Kogi, Abduct Worshippers in Fresh Wave of Attacks

Ejiba community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State was thrown into chaos on Sunday morning after armed bandits reportedly invaded a church service and abducted several worshippers, deepening fear across the region.

Akahi News gathered that the attack took place at a newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church, where congregants had assembled for worship when the assailants stormed the premises. The sudden invasion triggered panic, forcing many worshippers to flee for safety as the attackers allegedly marched into the church during the service.

Eyewitness Accounts Describe Panic, Disorder

An eyewitness, Adegboyega Oguns, who was present during the incident, reportedly said that the congregation scattered in fear as the gunmen advanced into the church.

“It’s a new Cherubim and Seraphim church. The pastor popularly called Orlando and his wife, with some others, have been kidnapped,” Oguns reportedly shared on the Egbe Mekun Parrot platform on Facebook. He added, “It is serious, we all ran out of church.”

Akahi News learnt that the exact number of abducted worshippers remains unclear as of the time of filing this report, with conflicting accounts still emerging from the community and neighbouring towns.

Fresh Assaults Raise Alarm in Kogi Communities

The incident reportedly came just a day after another attack along the Isanlu Makutu–Idofin route in Yagba East Local Government Area. Witnesses said that armed men struck on Saturday afternoon, creating widespread panic and forcing residents and travellers to flee or seek hiding.

According to reports, the repeated assaults have heightened tension across parts of Kogi West, with many residents choosing to remain indoors while commuters divert to alternative routes to avoid the troubled axis.

Observers believe the spate of violence highlights the persistent security challenges in rural communities and along key transportation routes in the state.

Growing Concerns Over Safety of Worship Centres

The reported targeting of a place of worship has further deepened anxiety among residents, especially as churches, mosques and markets have traditionally been regarded as safe spaces. Community leaders have begun calling for urgent intervention from security agencies to prevent further incidents.

Akahi News gathered that concerned citizens are appealing to the state and federal governments to increase security surveillance, deploy more personnel to vulnerable areas, and ensure the safe return of those allegedly abducted.

Call for Strengthened Security Presence

While official confirmation from security authorities is still being awaited, analysts say these attacks, if not decisively addressed, could further disrupt socio-economic and religious activities in the region.

Residents of Ejiba and surrounding communities are now living in heightened fear, with families keeping a close watch on developments and hoping for swift action that will restore peace and confidence.

As Akahi News learnt, the situation remains tense, and further updates are expected as investigations and response efforts unfold.

Akahi News www.akahinews.org