From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Seventeen additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, have regained their freedom following sustained negotiations with their captors, community leaders have confirmed.The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association disclosed the development on Tuesday, saying it worked closely with affected families to facilitate the latest release. The group described the outcome as a relief to the community, despite the heavy financial and emotional toll involved
.According to the association, the release was secured after weeks of negotiations that required what it described as “painful sacrifices of huge resources” by families and community members.The ECWA abduction occurred on December 14, 2025, when more than 30 worshippers were kidnapped during a church service in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu. The incident sparked widespread concern and condemnation, prompting continuous efforts by families and community leaders to secure the victims’ release.
NOn January 1, 2026, seven abductees were freed after prolonged negotiations and the payment of a ₦15 million ransom. However, the outcome was tragic, as only four of the seven were released alive. Community sources confirmed that two victims died in captivity before their release, while another died shortly after being taken to hospital.Negotiations with the kidnappers continued in the weeks that followed. Three more victims were released on January 12, 2026, while an additional 14 worshippers regained their freedom on January 13, 2026, bringing the total number of released abductees to 24.
Despite the progress, 13 worshippers are still being held in captivity, raising ongoing concerns about their safety and wellbeing.The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association reaffirmed its commitment to securing the release of the remaining victims and appealed for continued prayers, support, and understanding from the public.Community leaders also renewed calls for urgent intervention by security agencies to prevent further loss of life and to bring the ordeal to a peaceful conclusion.
Residents of Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu said the abduction has deeply affected the community, disrupting social and religious activities while placing immense strain on families of the victims.They urged the government and security authorities to intensify efforts to address insecurity in rural communities, particularly places of worship, to prevent similar incidents in the future. As negotiations continue, the community remains hopeful that the remaining abducted worshippers will be released unharmed.
