Kogi Govt Confirms Killing of 4 Bandits, 13 Church Worshippers Abducted in Kiri

By Ahmed Muhammed Danasabe, Lokoja

Lokoja, Dec 16, 2025 - The Kogi State government has confirmed the killing of four bandits and the abduction of 13 church worshippers in Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, during an attack on ECWA Church on Sunday.

According to the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the bandits were killed by local hunters while resisting the attack on the church during Sunday service.

"Several other bandits escaped with gunshot wounds," Fanwo said, adding that hunters and security operatives are currently on the trail of the fleeing bandits.

Fanwo disclosed that troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and personnel of the Kogi State Police Command have been deployed to the community, with the Department of State Services (DSS) providing intelligence support.

"The Governor of the State, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo, is engaging the service chiefs to ensure an air raid of the forest by the Nigerian Air Force to support the ground operations," Fanwo said.

He commended the bravery of local hunters and reassured residents that the government remains in control of the situation, stressing that Governor Ododo is committed to protecting lives and property.

"We are winning the battle already," Fanwo said, appealing for air support from the Nigerian Air Force to complement ongoing ground operations.

The Commissioner confirmed that security agencies are working together to rescue the abducted victims and tighten security in the state, following an influx of bandits from neighboring Niger and Kwara States.

"We have come up with measures to tighten security around the state," Fanwo said, thanking security agencies and local hunters for their cooperation.