- Bandits Release 17 More Abducted ECWA Worshippers In Kogi
- Twenty four victims freed so far, thirteen still in captivity
- Community led talks continue amid fears and uncertainty
Terrorists believed to be bandits have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All ECWA in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, following sustained negotiations and the payment of ransom.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the latest release followed weeks of engagement involving the abductors, families of the victims and the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, which has been coordinating community efforts to secure the freedom of those held in captivity.
Sources familiar with the negotiations said the Kogi State Government was not involved in the talks or the releases recorded so far.
The worshippers were abducted on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when armed men invaded the ECWA church during a church programme and whisked away more than 30 parishioners to an unknown location. The attack triggered panic and widespread outrage within the community and surrounding areas.
Since the abduction, relatives of the victims, working closely with community leaders, have been engaged in prolonged and difficult negotiations with the kidnappers in a desperate bid to secure the release of their loved ones.
The first breakthrough came on January 1, 2026, when seven abducted worshippers were released after negotiations and the payment of a ransom reportedly estimated at ₦15 million. However, the development was overshadowed by tragedy, as only four of the seven were freed alive. Two reportedly died while in captivity, while another died shortly after being taken to hospital following release.
Despite the painful loss, negotiations continued. On Monday, January 12, three additional worshippers were released, offering renewed hope to families still awaiting news of their relatives.
The process gathered further momentum on Tuesday, when 14 more abductees were freed, bringing the total number of worshippers released so far to 24.
Community sources said 13 worshippers are still believed to be in the custody of the terrorists, as calls intensify for renewed efforts to secure their safe release and bring an end to the ordeal.
