….as Ododo promises to see to their release
Bandits struck at a newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West local government area of Kogi State Sunday, abducting worshippers.
The community was said to have been thrown into chaos after armed bandits launched an attack during the church service.
According to locals, the attack forced worshippers to run for safety as gunshots echoed through the area. The pastor of the church, popularly known as Orlando, was taken away along with his wife and several other members.
Witnesses described the incident as terrifying, saying the bandits stormed the community unexpectedly and left many people in shock, adding that the exact number of people abducted is yet to be confirmed.
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The Police is yet to issue an official statement as of the time of filing this report.
However, the Kogi State government on Sunday said it has intensified surveillance and patrols, and launched a manhunt for the bandits who attacked the Cherubim and Seraphim church in Ejiba, Yagba West LGA of the state.
The State government, through Kingsley Fanwo , the Commissioner for Information and Communication, said, “Yes, I have information to that effect, and I am also aware that the security network, comprising the conventional security agencies and the local security architecture, is currently doing what they should do.
”The authorities of Yagba West local government council are working hard with the security agencies to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive. The perpetrators, too, already know that Kogi will do everything possible to secure every one of its citizens abducted.
Read also: 37 kidnap victims regain freedom after negotiations with bandits in Katsina, says lawmaker
”The Governor of the State, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, is coordinating activities, and we will keep the press updated on the operations.
”We urge the citizens to be security-conscious and also report suspicious movement and faces to security agencies. When you see something, say something.
”Worship Centres in the outskirts should also reconsider worshipping in crime-prone areas for now until the situation gets better.
