The Kogi State Government has confirmed an early Sunday morning attack on a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area. Gunmen reportedly abducted the pastor, known as Orlando, his wife, and several worshippers during the assault.

Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, described the incident as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable” in a statement from Lokoja. He urged residents to avoid holding services in unsecured locations, particularly in isolated bush churches, and to volunteer intelligence on suspicious activities.

Footage from the scene shows the church interior in disarray, with shoes and Bibles scattered, while a person filming pleaded for urgent help to rescue the abducted victims.

Fanwo noted that the state government and local authorities are working to enhance security in border LGAs like Ejiba, warning residents against unnecessary travel and advising vigilance.

The incident follows a recent attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State, where at least five people were killed and 38 worshippers were abducted; all were later freed through coordinated security efforts.