Bandits who abducted 14 worshippers from a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, have issued a two-day deadline to the victims’ families, demanding a ₦200 million ransom for their release.
The criminals had initially demanded ₦500 million before reducing the amount, warning that failure to comply within the 48-hour ultimatum would lead to dire consequences for the hostages, according to SaharaReporters.
The attack occurred on November 30, 2025, when armed men stormed the newly established church during a service and whisked away the worshippers.
Victims Include Infants and Entire Family of Presiding Pastor
Among the 14 abducted are the presiding pastor, popularly known as Orlando, and seven members of his household—including six children. The kidnapped victims also include a three-week-old baby and a four-month-old infant.
A video circulating on social media shows the pastor’s distressed family members kneeling and pleading for help as the deadline draws near. The pastor’s elderly wife, who was abducted alongside the children, tearfully appealed to Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo for urgent intervention.
“Please, come to our rescue. The amount the kidnappers are demanding is beyond our means,” she cried.
Government, Military Actions Acknowledged Despite Confusion
While some family members had earlier claimed that the government made no public statement about the incident, official records show that the Kogi State Government confirmed the attack on November 30 through the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.
The state condemned the attack, stating that Governor Ododo had activated a coordinated manhunt involving conventional security forces and local vigilante networks. The government maintained its stance of not negotiating with bandits, emphasising its readiness to confront criminal groups.
Partial Rescue Achieved, But Majority Still in Captivity
On December 3, 2025, troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Lokoja, announced the rescue of six kidnapped victims in the Ejiba–Saminaka forest axis, noting that the abductors freed them due to sustained military pressure.
However, eight hostages remain in captivity, including Pastor Orlando and several children, as the ransom deadline rapidly approaches.
The situation continues to grow more desperate, with families and community members pleading for swift government action to secure the safe return of the remaining victims.