Kogi Security Forces Mobilize After Church Attack
The Kogi State government has launched an intensive security operation following the shocking abduction of a pastor, his wife, and several church members from the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area.
The attack occurred during Sunday service, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting immediate response from state authorities. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has personally taken charge of coordinating the security response.
Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, confirmed that both conventional security forces and local security networks have been deployed to pursue the perpetrators and secure the safe return of the kidnapped victims.
Government Assures Residents of Maximum Effort
Commissioner Fanwo emphasized the state's determination in handling the situation. "The authorities of Yagba West Local Government Council are working hard with the security agencies to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive", he stated.
He issued a strong warning to the abductors, noting that "The perpetrators already know that Kogi will do everything possible to secure every one of its citizens abducted."
In practical safety measures, Fanwo advised worship centers located in vulnerable areas to reconsider holding services until the security situation improves. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies immediately.
SWAGA Chairman Addresses National Security Concerns
Meanwhile, in Lagos, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, who serves as both the National Chairman of the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) and Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Ports Authority, addressed the broader security challenges facing the country.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria, Adeyeye attributed the recent wave of attacks to "saboteurs and enemies" seeking to exploit the situation for political advantage. "What we have now is orchestrated by some enemies of government who think they can take advantage of our problems to advance their own political interests", he asserted.
The SWAGA chairman defended President Bola Tinubu's administration, highlighting several immediate actions taken to address security concerns:
- Declaration of a security emergency
- Approval for recruitment of additional security personnel
- Implementation of comprehensive security reforms
Adeyeye acknowledged that "Criminality has been with us since the foundation of the world" but emphasized the government's commitment to "reduce it to the barest minimum so that people can live peaceful lives."
He expressed confidence in President Tinubu's ability to handle security challenges, citing his track record as former Lagos State governor and current president. Adeyeye remained optimistic that the security measures being implemented would eventually stabilize the country.
As the Kogi State government continues its coordinated manhunt with security agencies, the federal administration maintains that ongoing national security reforms will effectively counter such incidents in the future.
