Wave of Bandit Attacks Rocks Kogi, Kano, Sokoto and Kwara Communities

A string of violent attacks by armed bandits has left multiple communities across Kogi, Kano, Sokoto, and Kwara states in chaos, with dozens abducted and lives threatened.

In Kogi State, worshippers at a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area, were caught in a terrifying raid early yesterday. The pastor, known as Orlando, his wife, and several congregants were reportedly abducted during the service, forcing worshippers to flee as gunshots rang out. The total number of victims remains unconfirmed.

“The bandits stormed the community unexpectedly, leaving many residents in shock. People ran for safety as stray bullets flew,” said a local resident.

Kogi State authorities have vowed to rescue all church victims alive, with intensified surveillance and ongoing manhunts for the perpetrators.

Deadly Raids Across Northern Nigeria

In Kano State, bandits attacked Yankamaye village in Tsanyawa Local Government Area, killing one woman and abducting three others. Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has called on security agencies to aggressively pursue the attackers who have terrorised villages in Tsanyawa and Shanono LGAs.

Sokoto State was also hit on Saturday night when bandits raided Chacho village in Wurno Local Government Area. Among the victims were a bride, her bridesmaids, and other women preparing for a wedding scheduled the following day.

In Kwara State, kidnappers seized Ojibara of Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, while he worked on his farm. The abductors have demanded a N150 million ransom for his release.

Authorities are still managing ongoing cases, including the continued captivity of two directors of the Ministry of Defence who were kidnapped in Kogi three weeks ago.

Communities Grapple with Growing Insecurity

The recent attacks highlight a worsening insecurity crisis across northern and central Nigeria. Residents have expressed fear and frustration as bandit raids disrupt daily life, religious activities, and farming communities. Security agencies continue to coordinate rescue operations and pursue the perpetrators.