Nigeria Kidnapping Wave: Pastor Abducted in Kogi, Bride in Sokoto
Two separate abductions hit central and northern Nigeria, targeting a church, a wedding party, and other vulnerable communities, underscoring rising security concerns across the country.
In central and northern Nigeria, two separate kidnappings highlight a rising wave of abductions linked to ransom demands. Gunmen attacked a church and then a wedding party, pulling victims from daily life into a cycle of fear. The incidents underscore the vulnerability of rural communities across the country.
What happened in Kogi and Sokoto
In Ejiba, a town in central Kogi State, attackers struck the Cherubim and Seraphim Church on Sunday morning. They fired shots, scattered worshippers, and took the local pastor, his wife, and several other church members who had gathered for worship.
Hours earlier in Sokoto State in the north, a wedding party was disrupted. A bride to be, her bridesmaids, and other guests were abducted, along with a baby and the baby's mother, according to news reports.
Context and reactions
These raids add to a pattern of attacks on churches, schools, and other community hubs in the region. It is not clear who is behind the kidnappings; some analysts point to criminal gangs seeking ransom, while a government spokesperson has said authorities suspect jihadist groups are involved.
Kogi state government spokesman Kingsley Fanwo confirmed the Ejiba attack to INLIBER but did not verify casualty numbers. He said security agencies are pursuing the gunmen and coordinating with local security networks to counter the threat.
In Sokoto, local media said the bride was set to marry the next day and was abducted with friends and guests who had gathered to celebrate with her.
In separate violence, hundreds of schoolchildren and teachers remain unaccounted for after a major attack in recent weeks, while some earlier abductees have since been released.
Experts warn that rural communities face increasing danger, and authorities are under pressure to improve protection for schools, churches, and remote villages.
Even though the government bans ransom payments in an effort to curb kidnapping profits, many cases still involve negotiated settlements behind the scenes.
The security crisis drew international attention last month when a U.S. president suggested sending troops if Christians continued to be targeted, a claim that added to the global focus on Nigeria's violence. Officials and analysts stress that victims come from all faiths and that no single group can be blamed for the wave of violence.
Additional reporting by Basillioh Rukanga.
More about Nigeria's security crisis
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Summary: The two abductions illustrate the ongoing risk facing communities in central and northern Nigeria, especially around places of worship and schools. Security forces say they are increasing patrols and investigations, but the situation remains unstable. The broader kidnapping trend affects people from many backgrounds, underlining the need for stronger protection nationwide.
Key takeaway: Rural Nigeria remains highly vulnerable as kidnappings rise, underscoring the need to bolster protection for churches, schools, and remote towns. BBC News