Gunmen abduct 25 worshippers in latest Nigerian church attack

Gunmen have abducted 25 worshippers in the latest Nigerian church attack.

According to the church official on Monday, a Baptist church in northwestern Nigeria was attacked by an armed assailants on Sunday, resulting in the abduction of 25 worshippers.

This is the most recent in a series of attacks that have been occurring in Nigeria, where security is becoming an increasingly significant issue. Bola Tinubu, the president-elect, who is scheduled to take office later this month, will face many challenges, including this one.

Initially, the attackers had taken 40 individuals from the Bege Baptist Church in the Chikun area of Kaduna State on Sunday. However, 15 of them escaped later, according to Rev. Joseph Hayab, head of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna State.

According to him, 25 worshippers are still in the hands of the attackers. Although a police spokesman in Kaduna verified the incident on Sunday, he declined to provide any additional information.

Kidnappings are common in central and northwest Nigeria, with hostages held in hidden camps in vast forests until the ransom is paid. This has become a highly profitable activity.

Kidnappings may also arise as a result of conflicts between opposing communities. Last month, 33 people died in an attack in Kaduna State village, which was part of a dispute between herding and farming communities over water and grazing resources.

Last year, a Catholic church in southwestern Ondo was attacked, and at least 40 individuals were killed by attackers.