A pastor of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN/HEKAN), Reverend Yahaya Kambasiya, has been killed and more than 20 people abducted after armed bandits raided Farin Dutse in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when gunmen stormed the community, firing shots and forcing residents to flee for safety. Several villagers, including church members, were reportedly taken away by the attackers.
HEKAN President, Reverend Dr. Amos Kiri, confirmed the incident, describing it as another heartbreaking assault on Christian worshippers in the area. According to him, Rev. Kambasiya was shot after coming out of hiding, thinking the assailants had left.
A field report from the HEKAN Kauru District Chairman, Rev. Dauda Gambo, noted that the pastor sought refuge on a nearby farm during the attack. When he emerged, he was shot from behind, with the bullet piercing through his chest, killing him instantly.
Dr. Kiri said the late pastor’s body has been taken to a mortuary, and discussions are underway with his family regarding funeral plans.
He recalled that this is not the first time church members have been targeted in the area. In December 2024, about 50 worshippers — including a HEKAN pastor, Rev. Francis Lawal — were kidnapped, and Rev. Lawal later died in captivity. On October 19, 2025, four HEKAN members were also abducted and remain missing.
“The frequency of attacks on our communities in Kauru is alarming,” the HEKAN President said, urging security agencies to take urgent action to rescue the victims and stop further violence. He added that families of those kidnapped are suffering immense emotional distress.
He called on Nigerians to pray for the victims and for peace in the country, appealing for divine intervention to end the persistent kidnappings and killings.
The church confirmed it has notified the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the police, and other authorities about the latest incident.
