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Seventeen more worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, have regained their freedom following weeks of tense negotiations and ransom settlements.
Families and community leaders, particularly the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, have been at the forefront of efforts to secure the release of the victims, navigating prolonged discussions with the kidnappers.
The abductions occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when armed men raided the church during a service, forcibly taking over 30 parishioners to an unknown location.
The attack sent shockwaves through the local community and neighboring towns.
Initial breakthroughs came on January 1, 2026, when seven worshippers were freed after a ransom reportedly totaling ₦15 million was paid.
Tragically, only four survived, while three died, two in captivity and one shortly after medical intervention following release.
Despite this grim beginning, negotiations pressed on.
Sources on Monday, January 12, confirmed the release of three more victims, followed by another 14 on Tuesday. The total number of freed worshippers now stands at 24.
Local contacts indicate that 13 worshippers remain in the hands of the abductors.
Notably, the Kogi State Government has not played a role in the negotiation or release processes, leaving community-led efforts as the primary force behind the rescues.
One community leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “We will continue to push for the release of every person still held.
“Our prayers and efforts are unwavering until all our members are back safely.”
The series of releases offers a glimmer of relief for the families, but the ordeal underscores the persistent threat of banditry in parts of Kogi State and the challenges communities face in protecting themselves.