In a shocking act of violence, at least 13 people were abducted from a church in Nigeria’s Kogi state during a Sunday morning service. This is the second such incident in two weeks, highlighting the rising frequency of kidnappings by armed gangs, commonly referred to as “bandits.” The attack at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aaaaz-Kiri, a rural district, brings attention to the growing insecurity in the country.
Gunmen Storm Church Service
On Sunday morning, gunmen stormed the church during the service, opening fire and kidnapping several congregants. The attack left the community in shock and fear. Authorities responded quickly, and five of the gunmen were killed during a firefight with security forces. However, several others managed to escape despite being wounded.
This incident follows a similar attack two weeks ago in nearby Ejiba, where a pastor, his wife, and several church members were kidnapped. The victims are still in captivity, and efforts to secure their release continue.
The Growing Threat of Kidnapping for Ransom
Kidnapping for ransom has become a major issue in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where armed gangs prey on vulnerable communities. These criminal groups, known as bandits, target individuals and institutions, including churches, schools, and villages. After kidnapping victims, they demand ransom payments, creating a cycle of fear and exploitation.
The Kogi state attack is a stark reminder of the dangers facing Nigerian citizens. The increase in these kidnappings shows the growing power of criminal gangs, whose operations extend across many parts of the country. In recent months, other high-profile kidnappings have made headlines, such as the abduction of more than 250 children from a school in Niger state in November 2025.
The Government’s Response: More Troops and Intelligence Operations
In response to the rising violence, the Nigerian government has ordered security forces to increase efforts to combat armed gangs. President Bola Tinubu has approved the deployment of additional troops and police to high-risk areas, particularly in rural regions. Joint military and police task forces have been established to target criminal groups and dismantle their networks.
While these efforts have led to some successes, such as the dismantling of several armed groups, the attacks persist. Many experts argue that the security presence is still insufficient, especially in remote areas where response times are slow. Local communities remain vulnerable due to the lack of effective law enforcement in these regions.
State vs. Federal Control: The Debate Over Security
The growing insecurity in Nigeria has sparked debates about the role of federal versus state governments in addressing these issues. While the federal government has taken steps to combat the violence, many Nigerians feel that local authorities should have more control over security measures. Local communities in Kogi state, for example, have criticized the federal government for not providing enough protection.
Advocates for state-level security argue that local governments are better positioned to address the unique needs of their communities. In some areas, citizens have formed vigilante groups to protect themselves from kidnappers. These groups, though controversial, are seen as a necessary response in areas where the police and military have a limited presence.
A Country in Crisis: Tackling the Root Causes
The wave of kidnappings in Nigeria is part of a larger problem of insecurity that affects many parts of the country. Armed gangs, fueled by poverty and lack of opportunities, have taken advantage of Nigeria’s weak security infrastructure. These groups often operate with impunity, knowing that their chances of facing punishment are slim.
To effectively combat this growing threat, experts argue that Nigeria needs to address the root causes of banditry, such as poverty, unemployment, and corruption. The country must invest in strengthening its security forces, improve intelligence-sharing between federal and state agencies, and provide better opportunities for local communities. Without tackling these underlying issues, Nigeria will continue to face challenges in combating criminal gangs.
A Call for Action: Ensuring Safety for Worshippers and Communities
The recent attack on a church in Kogi state and the growing number of kidnappings across Nigeria underscore the urgent need for better security and protection. Religious institutions, which should be safe havens, have become targets for armed gangs. Nigerians deserve the right to worship, live, and work without fear of violence.
While the Nigerian government has pledged to tackle the issue, much more needs to be done. The country must prioritize the safety of its citizens, especially in rural communities where these criminal groups thrive. Strengthening security, increasing response times, and ensuring that justice is served will be critical in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.
