Gunmen have abducted at least 20 people, including a pastor and a new bride, in two separate attacks in the latest Nigerian kidnappings.
Attackers stormed the newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church on Sunday in the central Kogi state, firing shots and forcing congregants to flee in panic. They seized the pastor, his wife, and several worshippers.
In another raid the night before in the northern Sokoto state, a bride and her bridesmaids were among those kidnapped. A baby, the baby's mother, and another woman were also taken, according to reports from the AFP news agency.
Schools and places of worship have increasingly been targeted in the latest wave of attacks across north and central Nigeria.
While the identities of the kidnappers remain unclear, analysts largely believe these incidents are the work of criminal gangs seeking ransom payments, though some officials suggest jihadist groups may be involved.
Kogi state government spokesperson Kingsley Fanwo confirmed the attacks, stating the authorities are actively working to track down the perpetrators.
The recent spate of abductions has raised alarms about the safety of rural communities, intensifying pressure on authorities to enhance protections for vulnerable populations—including schools, churches, and remote areas.
Despite efforts to outlaw ransom payments, there are widespread beliefs that such transactions continue to occur in Nigeria.
The ongoing security crisis has drawn international attention, particularly after US President Donald Trump expressed intentions to intervene if violence against Christians continues.
Officials emphasize that individuals from all faiths are victims of these kidnappings, countering claims that Christians are the primary targets.
