By Queen Madaki, The Bureau News
The Kogi State Government has intensified a full-scale security operation after terrorists abducted a pastor, his wife, and several congregants of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area.
The attack occurred during Sunday service, prompting immediate mobilisation of both conventional security forces and local vigilance networks. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed that Governor Usman Ododo is directly supervising the rescue mission.
“The authorities of Yagba West Local Government Council are working hard with the security agencies to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive. The perpetrators already know that Kogi will do everything possible to secure every one of its citizens abducted,” Fanwo said.
He further urged residents to report suspicious movements and advised worship centres in vulnerable communities to reconsider holding services until security improves.
Meanwhile, in Lagos, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, National Chairman of the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) and Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Ports Authority, addressed broader concerns about rising attacks nationwide. Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria, he blamed “saboteurs and enemies” trying to exploit the nation’s challenges for political gain.
“What we have now is orchestrated by some enemies of government who think they can take advantage of our problems to advance their own political interests,” he said.
Adeyeye highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s swift security emergency declaration, including approval for recruitment of additional personnel, as part of efforts to stabilise the country. He noted that criminality has long existed but must be reduced drastically to allow citizens live peacefully.
Referencing Tinubu’s record as Lagos governor and now president, Adeyeye expressed optimism that the ongoing security reforms would yield results in the coming months.
The Kogi State Government continues its manhunt, working alongside federal agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted church members while national authorities intensify broader counter-terrorism measures.
