…as Kogi govt assures rescue, launches manhunt for bandits
The Kogi State Government has vowed to rescue all victims abducted during Sunday’s attack on the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, promising an intensified security operation across the region.
Gunmen had stormed the church during service, whisking away the pastor popularly known as Orlando his wife, and an unspecified number of worshippers, throwing the community into confusion and fear.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the attack and said the government had activated a joint security response involving conventional security agencies and local vigilante structures.
Fanwo stated that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was personally coordinating rescue efforts, stressing that Kogi would deploy every available resource to ensure the safe return of the abducted worshippers.
“The authorities of Yagba West Local Government Council are working closely with security agencies to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive,” Fanwo said. “The perpetrators already know that Kogi will do everything possible to secure every one of its citizens abducted.”
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement or unknown faces, reiterating the government’s “see something, say something” directive. He also advised worship centres located in remote or vulnerable areas to temporarily reconsider holding services in isolated locations until security conditions improve.
Sunday’s attack, which occurred around 10 a.m., saw armed bandits invade the church mid-service, firing shots that sent worshippers fleeing in panic before abducting the pastor, his wife and several members. The exact number of victims remains unclear as families continue to account for missing persons.
The abduction has heightened tensions in Ejiba and revived concerns about rising rural insecurity in parts of Kogi State, following recent reports of bandit incursions in nearby communities.
Security agencies have begun combing surrounding areas as the manhunt intensifies. The state government said updates will be provided as operations progress.