by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
Gunmen have attacked a church in Kogi State, abducting the pastor, his wife, and several worshippers.
The incident occurred on Sunday at the newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area.
According to residents, the attack happened in the middle of the service, throwing the community into confusion as worshippers fled amid heavy gunfire. The pastor, popularly known as Orlando, was taken along with his wife and an unconfirmed number of church members.
Eyewitnesses described the assault as sudden and frightening, noting that the attackers stormed the area without warning and left many people traumatized. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of those kidnapped.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State Government says it has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, said security agencies were working tirelessly to rescue the victims.
“The authorities of Yagba West Local Government Council are working closely with security agencies to ensure all those kidnapped are rescued alive. The perpetrators are aware that Kogi State will go to any length to protect its citizens,” the statement read.
Fanwo added that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is personally coordinating the response efforts and assured the public that updates will be provided as operations progress.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to security agencies.
“When you see something, say something,” he stated, advising worship centres in remote or vulnerable areas to temporarily avoid holding services there until security improves.