BREAKING: Terrorists Release More ECWA Church Members After Ransom Payment

Suspected terrorists, believed to be bandits, have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, following sustained negotiations and the payment of ransom. The latest release came after weeks of intense engagement between the kidnappers, affected families, and the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, which has been coordinating community efforts to secure the freedom of the victims since the abduction. Ibom Focus gathered that the Kogi State government was not involved in the negotiations or the releases recorded so far. The abduction occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when armed men stormed the ECWA Church in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu during a church activity and abducted more than 30 parishioners. The attackers reportedly whisked the worshippers away to an unknown location, sparking panic and outrage within the community and beyond. Since the incident, families of the victims, alongside community leaders, have been engaged in continuous and often difficult negotiations with the abductors in a desperate bid to save their loved ones. These efforts initially yielded limited success. On January 1, 2026, seven of the abducted worshippers were released after prolonged negotiations and the payment of a ransom put at ₦15million. However, the release was marred by tragedy. Of the seven victims, only four were freed alive, while three were confirmed dead; two reportedly died while still in captivity, and one died after being taken to the hospital following release. Despite the devastating outcome, negotiations reportedly continued. A local platform, Egbe Mekun, reported that three more victims were released on Monday, January 12. This was followed by the release of an additional 14 abductees on Tuesday, bringing the total number of worshippers freed so far to 24. Meanwhile, 13 worshippers are still believed to be in the custody of the terrorists, according to community sources familiar with the situation. However, the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association reaffirmed its commitment to securing the release of the remaining abductees. The association also appealed to members of the public to continue praying for the safe return of those still in captivity and to support ongoing efforts aimed at ending the ordeal. Residents of Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu have continued to appeal for urgent intervention and assistance from relevant authorities to ensure the safe and unconditional release of the remaining victims.