Bandits unleash terror in Kogi, Kano, Sokoto and Kwara

wave of coordinated raids across four northern states, armed bandits have abducted worshippers, a traditional ruler, a bride and her bridal party, and several other civilians, while killing at least one woman and demanding large ransoms. The attacks have heightened public alarm and prompted renewed calls for stronger security measures.

In the early hours of yesterday, gunmen stormed the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State. The assailants opened fire during the service, forcing congregants to flee. Pastor “Orlando,” his wife and several members of the church were taken away. The exact number of those abducted has not been confirmed, as police have not released official figures

Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo said the government has stepped up surveillance and a manhunt for the perpetrators. Information Minister Kingsley Fanwo added that security agencies, together with local vigilantes, are working to rescue the victims and that worship centres in high‑risk areas should consider suspending services until the situation improves

On Saturday night, bandits entered Yankamaye village in Tsanyanwa Local Government Area of Kano State. The attackers killed an elderly woman and seized three other women. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who confirmed the incident on Facebook, urged security forces to pursue the marauding groups and stop further incursions

Also on Saturday night, bandits raided Chacho village in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State. A young bride preparing for her wedding the following morning was taken, along with her bridesmaids and several guests. The attackers fled after sporadic gunfire, leaving the community in shock. The Sokoto State APC chairman, Isah Achida, said some residents had been abducted but could not provide a precise count

In Kwara State, bandits abducted Alhaji Kamilu Salami, the Ojibara of Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area, from his farm on Saturday morning. The kidnappers have demanded N150 million from the community for his release. The bandits forced the monarch to speak with his people to verify his captivity before any negotiations begin 

Three weeks ago, six directors of the Federal Ministry of Defence were seized on the Kabba‑Lokoja highway while travelling for promotion examinations. Four have been rescued, but two remain in captivity. The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has called on the ministry and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and to reconsider the centralised examination system that forces officials to travel long distances

The escalating violence has drawn reactions from several quarters. Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka urged the federal government to introduce security education in schools, arguing that early awareness could