Seventeen more worshippers abducted from the ECWA Church in Ayetoro-Kiri, Kogi State, have reportedly been released following negotiations and additional ransom payments by their families and the local community.
The victims were kidnapped on December 14, 2025, during a Sunday service, when armed men stormed the church and took over 30 worshippers hostage.
Earlier reports from the Ayetoro-Kiri community indicated that three of the abducted individuals had died, while four were receiving medical treatment, leaving around 30 still in captivity. This information was detailed in a statement issued by the Community Spokesperson, David Ampitan, on Saturday in Lokoja.
Ampitan described the crisis as a stark reflection of the failure of security governance in the area. He alleged that instead of safeguarding residents or pursuing the kidnappers, authorities, including the Kogi State Government through the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Chairman, responded to peaceful protests with tear gas and arrests.
The protesters had gathered to demand justice, secure the release of the captives, and call for better security.
The community further urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and other relevant authorities to take urgent action in Ayetoro-Kiri and the wider Bunu district, stressing the importance of rescuing those still in captivity, restoring safety, and holding accountable officials perceived to have neglected their responsibilities.
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