Gunmen Kidnap 13 Worshippers in Kogi State, Nigeria

At least 13 people were kidnapped after gunmen attacked a church in Kogi State, central Nigeria, on Sunday morning. The incident happened at the Evangelical Church Winning All in Aaaaz-Kiri, a small rural community.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers opened fire on worshippers during the morning service before forcing them into vehicles and taking them away. The abduction has shocked residents and raised concerns about the growing insecurity in the area.

Kogi State Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, said five of the attackers were killed during security operations, while others escaped but were injured. Authorities described the gunmen as “bandits,” criminal groups that often kidnap people to demand ransom.

“This attack is very unfortunate. We are working with security forces to rescue the victims and prevent further attacks,” Commissioner Fanwo said.

This is the second attack on a church in Kogi in just two weeks. In an earlier incident in Ejiba, gunmen raided a church and kidnapped a pastor, his wife, and several church members. Many of them are still in captivity.

Officials have said that bandits are increasingly moving into Kogi State as military operations in neighboring regions push them from other areas. The attacks reflect a rising trend of insecurity in central and north-western Nigeria, despite government efforts to deploy troops and police to protect communities.

Residents are calling for stronger security measures to protect churches and villages. Local leaders warn that without urgent action, more communities could be at risk.

Government and security agencies are coordinating to track down the abductors and ensure the safe release of all kidnapped worshippers. They are also reviewing strategies to address the growing movement of bandits into Kogi State from other troubled areas.

The repeated attacks on religious institutions have raised fears across the country and sparked calls for stronger regional security cooperation. Experts say that insecurity in rural areas is worsening as criminal groups exploit poor road networks, limited police presence, and local vulnerabilities.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to security forces. They stressed that efforts are ongoing to restore peace and protect citizens from future attacks.

The government has also promised to review security strategies for vulnerable communities and increase patrols in high-risk areas to prevent further kidnappings and violence.