Bandits Release 17 More Abducted ECWA Worshippers After Ransom Payment In Kogi, 13 Still In Captivity

Lokoja, Kogi State– Terrorists suspected to be armed bandits have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, following sustained negotiations and the payment of ransom by the community and families of the victims.

Afrika Eyes gathered that the latest release was facilitated through efforts led by the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, working closely with affected families, without any involvement from the Kogi State Government.

The abduction occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when heavily armed attackers stormed the ECWA Church in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu and whisked away more than 30 worshippers during a church service.

Since the incident, the community has been gripped by fear and uncertainty, as relatives and local leaders embarked on continuous negotiations to secure the release of those held captive.

On January 1, 2026, seven of the abducted worshippers were released after prolonged negotiations and the payment of a ₦15 million ransom.

However, the release was marred by tragedy. Of the seven victims returned, only four were released alive, while three were confirmed dead — two reportedly died while still in captivity, and one died shortly after being taken to hospital following release.

Despite the devastating loss, negotiations continued with the abductors.

A local platform, Egbe Mekun, reported that further engagements with the bandits led to the release of three more victims on Monday, December 12, 2026, followed by the release of an additional 14 worshippers on Tuesday, December 13, 2026.

With the latest development, a total of 24 abducted worshippers have now been released since the December 2025 attack.

However, 13 victims are still believed to be in the custody of the terrorists, raising fresh concerns among residents and families.

Community sources confirmed to SaharaReporters that at no point was the Kogi State Government involved in the negotiations or the releases achieved so far.

Instead, the burden of engagement with the abductors, including the raising of ransom funds, was borne by the affected families and community stakeholders through the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association.

Meanwhile, the association reaffirmed its commitment to securing the freedom of the remaining abductees and appealed to the public for continued prayers, support, and solidarity.

It also urged security agencies and relevant authorities to take decisive action to rescue those still in captivity and to prevent further attacks in the area.

Residents of Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu have continued to appeal for urgent assistance, warning that the continued absence of government intervention could further embolden criminal groups operating in the region.

They expressed fears that without swift and coordinated security action, rural communities and places of worship would remain soft targets for bandits.