Gunmen have abducted a pastor and two church members in Benue State, sparking widespread concern among worshippers and residents. The incident occurred on Tuesday, June 30, when armed men stormed the residence of Samuel Gbinde, a pastor with the Universal Reform Christian Church (URCC), also known as NKST, located within the church premises in Ishan Classis, Benue.
Church Confirms Abduction, Seeks Prayers
The church confirmed the attack in a statement released by its General Secretary, Titus Targba. “It is with a heavy heart, yet with unwavering confidence in the sovereignty of Almighty God, that we announce the unfortunate abduction of our cleric,” the statement read. Targba detailed that the abduction took place at the pastor’s residence inside the NKST Church, Andyar, Ishan Classis, and called on church members and the public to pray for the safe release of the victims.
The church also urged security agencies, the Benue state government, and the federal government to act swiftly to secure the release of the captives and arrest those responsible for the kidnapping.
Demand for Stronger Security Measures
In their statement, church officials pushed for stronger action against kidnapping and violent attacks in the state. They emphasized that security efforts should not wait until after attacks occur but should focus on preventing such crimes beforehand. “As the people of God, we remain steadfast in faith, trusting in His unfailing protection and praying for the safe return of our brother, his companions, and all those held captive,” the church added. “May the Lord continue to preserve His Church, comfort the affected families, and grant peace and security to our land.”
Authorities have yet to confirm any rescue or arrest at the time of reporting.
Context: Recent Kidnapping Incidents in Nigeria
This abduction comes amid a wave of kidnapping incidents across Nigeria. In a separate case, Pastor Enoch Adeboye recently spoke about the release of abducted Oyo schoolchildren and teachers, claiming God revealed they would be freed dramatically. The RCCG leader said he prayed after the May 15 abduction and received assurance about the victims’ eventual freedom. His statement drew mixed reactions, with Nigerians debating faith, security failures, and the government’s response to kidnapping.
Earlier, police in Oyo State rescued two children abducted in Ebinpejo village, Ibarapa East Local Government Area. The victims were tracked to a forest hideout through intelligence efforts, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers. One suspect, Umaru Usman, claimed supernatural influence pushed him into the crime, denying masterminding the operation.
