Bandits Abduct RCCG, CAC Pastors, Families in Kogi

Suspected bandits have reportedly abducted two pastors and several residents during a late-night attack on Odo-Eri community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The victims include clergymen from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), alongside members of their families and other residents of the area.

The attack reportedly occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday when the gunmen stormed the community, firing sporadically to create panic before carrying out the abductions.

Residents said the assailants operated for several minutes without resistance, forcing many villagers to flee for safety while others were taken away.

Although the exact number of abducted persons has not been officially confirmed, local sources disclosed that no fewer than 20 people may have been kidnapped during the invasion.

The kidnappers were said to have escaped through Abewo Road, moving toward the Kwara State axis.

Security agencies have since launched rescue operations, with the police confirming that efforts have been intensified to secure the safe return of the victims.

Speaking on the incident, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kogi State, Apostle Olaniyan Adebayo, revealed that the Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier issued security alerts concerning possible attacks in some parts of the state.

According to him, churches in the affected areas were warned in advance based on intelligence reports received from security operatives.

“The DSS called me and asked me to alert churches in those places based on the intelligence they had. We immediately sent messages through coordinators in the local government areas,” he said.

Adebayo noted that the early warning helped some church leaders and worshippers to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures.

The incident has once again raised concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kogi State, particularly in border communities vulnerable to attacks from armed groups operating across state lines.