A bandit attack in Ejiba has sparked grim fear as a pastor, his wife and others were abducted, heightening security concerns across Kogi communities

Freelanews reported that a bandit attack in Ejiba, Yagba West in Kogi State, sent worshippers fleeing for safety on Sunday morning after gunmen stormed a Cherubim and Seraphim Church mid-service.

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Eyewitnesses who spoke to Egbe Mekun Platform said the attackers struck suddenly, leaving congregants scrambling in panic as shots rang out.

Adegboyega Oguns, who was present during the assault, confirmed that the pastor known as Orlando, his wife and several others were taken away by the armed group.

He described the scene as chaotic as worshippers abandoned the service and raced out of the building to escape.

His message on Facebook captured the distress as he wrote that the pastor and others had been kidnapped and that the situation was extremely serious.

The raid has deepened anxiety across the area and highlighted the worsening security pressures facing communities in Kogi.

Only a day earlier, another group of armed men attacked the Isanlu Makutu to Idofin corridor in Yagba East, forcing people travelling through the route to flee in fear.

Residents said the Saturday attack came without warning and that many hid in nearby bushes to avoid being caught in the violence.

The full number of abducted victims remains unconfirmed, as information from both incidents continues to emerge.

Local sources added that tension across neighbouring towns has intensified, with many residents choosing to stay indoors while travellers are rerouting to avoid the troubled stretch.