Four Killed, At Least 20 Worshippers Abducted as Gunmen Strike Kogi Church and Surrounding Communities.
Terrorist attacks on a church and rural communities in Kogi State leave four people dead and at least 20 abducted.
A quiet Sunday of worship turned into a scene of fear and mourning in parts of Kogi State, as armed assailants attacked a church and nearby communities, leaving at least four people dead and more than 20 worshippers abducted.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday when gunmen stormed a Christian worship centre in Ayetoro-Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, as congregants gathered for service. Witnesses say the assailants arrived heavily armed, firing sporadically to disperse worshippers before forcefully abducting men and women from the church premises.
Residents described the moment as chaotic and heartbreaking. In the confusion that followed, several people were shot, while others were dragged into surrounding bush paths. Local sources later confirmed that four persons lost their lives during the coordinated attacks.
The violence did not end at the church. On the same day, nearby rural communities were also targeted, with reports of additional killings and abductions, deepening fears that the attacks were carefully planned and executed across multiple locations.
Security forces have since been deployed to the affected areas, while efforts are underway to track the attackers and secure the release of those abducted. Community leaders and religious groups have condemned the assault, describing it as a cruel violation of the sanctity of worship and civilian life.
This latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Nigeria’s North-Central region, where rural communities and places of worship have increasingly come under attack. For residents of Kogi State, the tragedy has once again raised urgent questions about safety, protection, and the need for stronger security measures.
As families wait anxiously for news of their loved ones, faith leaders have called for calm, unity, and prayers, even as they urge authorities to act swiftly and decisively. In the words of one community elder, “Our hearts are heavy, but we must not lose hope that those taken will return home safely.”
The situation remains unsure and residents are bracing for further updates as rescue operations continue.
