Nigerian Police Warn Kogi State Churches of Imminent Attacks Amid Rising Insecurity
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Nigerian Police Warn Kogi State Churches of Imminent Attacks Amid Rising Insecurity
The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to churches in Kogi State’s Yagba East Local Government Area, alerting them to credible threats of violent attacks by criminal groups.
According to a communication from CSP Kanwai James, Divisional Police Officer of Isanlu, intelligence reports indicate that armed criminals operating in Yagba East and West are planning deadly assaults on local churches. The police have urged all congregations to immediately strengthen their security protocols, including deploying internal security teams like Boys Brigade members during services and temporarily suspending night programs to reduce risks.
To bolster protection, the police are collaborating closely with the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups, and hunters to increase patrols, especially during Sunday worship hours. Authorities are also calling on the public to provide any useful information that could help prevent these attacks.
This alert comes amid a wave of violent incidents in the region, including the recent abduction of 76-year-old Pastor Joe Ajayi, a retired Nigerian Army Major and former CAN chairman in Kabba-Bunu LGA. His kidnapping has intensified fears for the safety of religious leaders and residents alike. Additionally, armed men have abducted four people, including community leader Ezekiel Durojaiye, in Okoloke, Yagba West, and reportedly kidnapped traditional ruler Oba James Dada Ogunyanda from his palace.
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Local government officials, including Yagba West Chairman Tosin Olokun, have condemned the escalating violence and called for urgent security reinforcements. The police remain committed to safeguarding citizens and restoring peace in the troubled communities.
Churches and residents in Kogi State are urged to stay vigilant and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts to curb this alarming threat intensify.
