The Kogi State Government has confirmed the kidnapping of 13 worshippers following an attack by suspected bandits on an ECWA church located in Ayetoro Kiri community, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, last Sunday.
State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, revealed on Monday that local hunters engaged the attackers in a fierce gunfight, killing four bandits while several others fled with gunshot injuries.
Fanwo attributed the assault to the displacement of criminal groups from neighboring Niger and Kwara States. Despite deploying a coordinated security strategy, he said the affected area still needs additional reinforcements.
“The kidnapped individuals are currently being pursued by hunters and security operatives within the forest, and we remain hopeful for their safe recovery,” the commissioner stated.
Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, Kogi State Police Command, and the Department of State Services have been deployed to the community to manage the situation.
Fanwo also called for air support from the Nigerian Air Force to complement ongoing ground operations.
He praised the bravery and patriotism of the local hunters and assured residents that the government remains firmly in control of security.
“We are steadily gaining the upper hand against criminal elements. Their movements have been restricted, and security around vulnerable places such as churches is being strengthened,” he added.
Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is actively coordinating with service chiefs to ensure synchronized air and ground operations to protect lives and property across the state.
