Suspected armed kidnappers have abducted a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), his wife, and several other residents during a late-night attack on Odo-Eri community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to multiple local and security-linked reports, the incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday when the gunmen stormed the community, firing sporadically to create panic before carrying out the abductions.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the victims include at least one RCCG pastor, his wife, children, and other residents. A pastor from another denomination was also reportedly kidnapped alongside members of his family, suggesting the attack was widespread and not targeted at a single household.
Residents said the sound of gunfire threw the entire community into chaos, forcing many people to flee their homes overnight. The exact number of abducted persons remains unclear as several villagers escaped into surrounding areas during the raid.
Sources further disclosed that the attackers reportedly fled through the Abewo Road axis, linking nearby communities and possibly heading toward the Kwara State boundary.
Reacting to the incident, Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District, condemned the attack and called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward rescuing the victims and apprehending those responsible. He described the assault as a setback that must not be allowed to reverse recent security gains in the area.
- Troops, DSS Rescue Six Kidnap Victims in Kogi, Including Naval Officer
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), working alongside operatives of…Read More “Troops, DSS Rescue Six Kidnap Victims in Kogi, Including Naval Officer” »
- Dangote Refinery’s N2.15 Trillion IPO Closes Today as Investors Make Final Push
LAGOS, Nigeria — The highly anticipated initial public offering (IPO)…Read More “Dangote Refinery’s N2.15 Trillion IPO Closes Today as Investors Make Final Push” »
As of the time of filing this report, the Kogi State Police Command had yet to issue a detailed official statement on the number of victims or progress in rescue operations. However, authorities are said to be working with local intelligence to track down the perpetrators.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over recurring kidnappings and armed attacks in parts of Kogi State, particularly in rural communities where residents remain vulnerable to such assaults.
