Bandits Demand ₦500 Million Ransom for Pastor, Worshippers Abducted in Kogi Church Attack
Armed bandits who stormed a church service in Cherubim & Seraphim Church in Ejiba, located in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦500 million for the release of the abducted pastor and several worshippers.
The raid occurred on Sunday morning, November 30, 2025. During the attack, gunmen forced their way into the newly established church, opened fire, prompting panic among congregants, and abducted the pastor, popular referred to as “Orlando,” along with his wife and a number of worshippers.
According to sources close to the family, the kidnappers reached out and set the ransom demand. As of the most recent reports, no official release has been made. Security operatives have reportedly begun monitoring the situation, but authorities have not confirmed whether negotiations have started.
In reaction to the attack, the Kogi State Government deployed both aerial and ground security units, including a helicopter and an anti-kidnapping squad, to comb the area and pursue the assailants.
The state’s Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, condemned the attack as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable.” He urged residents to remain vigilant, report any suspicious persons, and warned that worship centres in crime-prone areas should reconsider holding services until security improves.
The incident has reignited concern about security in Kogi State, as religious gatherings and places of worship are increasingly becoming targets of violent abductions.