Bandits Demand ₦500 Million To Release Kogi C&S Pastor, Worshippers

Armed bandits attacked the Cherubim and Seraphim Church located in Ejiba, within the Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, on the morning of Sunday, November 30, 2025, as reported by Naija News.

Following the incident, the kidnappers have made contact with the family of the abducted pastor, Pastor Orlando.

According to sources close to the family and reported by Sahara Reporters, the bandits are demanding a ransom of ₦500 million for the safe release of Pastor Orlando and an unconfirmed number of worshippers who were taken during the attack.

While authorities have not yet confirmed any negotiations, security forces are actively monitoring the situation.

Recall that the Kogi State Government, through the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, condemned the attack, describing it as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable.”

​Immediately following the attack, the state government launched an extensive aerial and ground security operation to pursue the attackers and secure the victims’ release.

Video footage circulating on social media showed a state-deployed helicopter and an anti-kidnapping unit actively combing the area.

​In his statement, Fanwo noted that the state government and the Yagba West Local Government Area, being a border LGA, have been making concerted efforts to combat criminal activities.

He also expressed frustration over the possible complicity of local residents and the vulnerability of isolated worship centers.