Terrorists release six more abducted ECWA worshipers in Kogi after ransom payment

The final batch of worshippers abducted from First ECWA Aiyetoro Kiri in Kogi State have regained their freedom, bringing a long and painful chapter to a close.

Bandits attacked the church on December 14, 2025, abducting several worshippers. 

The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association (AKBDA) in a statement on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 said the release followed weeks of sustained negotiations, appeals, and significant financial commitments by the community, families, and sympathizers.

According to the statement, the first group of seven abducted persons was released on January 1, 2026. Negotiations continued despite the emotional and financial strain, leading to the release of three more individuals on January 12, 2026, and an additional fourteen the following day. 

The final batch of six was released recently, completing the process.

AKBDA noted that the journey to secure the freedom of all abducted persons required “enormous resources” and unwavering resolve, describing the outcome as a testament to perseverance, collective sacrifice, and faith.

The association expressed deep gratitude to God, the families involved, community members, friends, and supporters who stood by Aiyetoro Kiri during what it described as one of its darkest moments. 

Special appreciation was also extended to media organizations for their consistent coverage and advocacy.

AKBDA concluded with prayers for lasting peace and security in Aiyetoro Kiri and Bunu land, expressing hope that such an incident would not occur again