Bandits who kidnapped 14 worshippers from a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West LGA of Kogi State, have issued a two-day ultimatum, demanding a reduced ransom of ₦200 million. The initial demand was reportedly ₦500 million.
The abduction occurred on November 30, 2025, when the attackers raided the newly established church during a service. The 14 hostages include the presiding pastor, Orlando, seven members of his household (including six children), a three-week-old baby, and a four-month-old infant.
A video circulating online captures the desperate plea of the pastor’s family as the deadline nears. Four women, including the elderly wife of the abducted pastor, were seen kneeling and imploring Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo for urgent intervention.
The elderly woman implored: “Please, come to our rescue. The amount the kidnappers are demanding is beyond our means.”
While the families lamented a lack of public statement, the Kogi State Government had confirmed the attack and launched security operations immediately, stressing its stance not to negotiate with bandits.
Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Lokoja confirmed the rescue of six kidnapped victims on December 3, 2025, due to sustained military pressure. However, the fate of the remaining eight hostages, including Pastor Orlando and the children, remains critical as the ransom deadline approache
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