Families Celebrate Partial Freedom As Community Raises Alarm Over Rising Insecurity
At least 17 additional members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) abducted by terrorists in Kogi State have regained their freedom after ransom payments were made, according to a report by Sahara Reporters.
The victims were among dozens of worshippers kidnapped during a deadly attack on an ECWA church in Aiyetoro-Kiri-Bunu community, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, while a church service was ongoing. The assault sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in Nigeria’s North-Central region.
Sources familiar with the development revealed that the latest release followed intense negotiations between the kidnappers and the victims’ families, who reportedly raised large sums of money to secure the freedom of their loved ones.
Despite the latest breakthrough, no fewer than 13 church members are still being held in captivity, with families expressing fear over their safety and wellbeing as days stretch into weeks.
Residents and community leaders lamented that the releases were achieved without any significant government intervention, accusing authorities of leaving rural communities to fend for themselves amid relentless attacks by armed groups.
The Kogi church abduction is one of several recent attacks targeting religious centres and remote communities, underscoring the growing boldness of terrorists and kidnappers across the country.
Community members have once again called on the federal and Kogi State governments to urgently deploy security forces to the area, dismantle terrorist camps, and ensure the safe rescue of those still in captivity.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the latest release or outline steps being taken to rescue the remaining victims.
