Suspected bandits have attacked Odo-Eri community in Yagba West LGA of Kogi State, abducting several residents including clergymen and their families in a late-night raid that has triggered fresh security concerns.
Night attack sparks panic
Local sources said the attackers stormed the community around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, firing gunshots to scare residents before carrying out the abductions.
The victims reportedly include pastors, their wives, children, aides, and other residents, though the exact number remains unclear.
“We cannot confirm the exact number or identities of those abducted at this time. Many residents fled for safety during the chaos,” a source said.
Clergymen among victims
Information circulating within the community indicates that a pastor from the Christ Apostolic Church and another from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, alongside their families, were among those taken.
Residents said the gunfire threw the area into panic, forcing many to flee their homes by Thursday morning.
Sources added that the attackers escaped through Abewo Road, linking Okunran and Okoloke communities toward the Kwara State axis.
Senator reacts, urges action
Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, condemned the attack and warned against a return to worsening insecurity in the area.
“Unknown gunmen reportedly invaded Odo-Eri community and abducted a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God alongside his wife, children, and several other residents,” he said.
He described the incident as a desperate act by criminal elements under pressure and expressed confidence that those responsible would be apprehended.
Karimi also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and called on residents to remain vigilant and share credible information.
Police yet to respond
Efforts to reach the Kogi State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not answered at the time of filing this report.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity, with communities continuing to face attacks from armed groups, a development dominating latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.