The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has revealed it has spent over N300 million in ransom payments to secure the release of kidnapped church members, while negotiations continue for the freedom of around 50 more individuals still being held captive.
The church reported that its members, particularly those in Kaduna and Plateau states, have been specifically targeted by kidnappers, raising serious alarm over the growing wave of violence.
Speaking to journalists at his office in Jos, ECWA’s General Secretary, Rev. Ayuba Asheshe, stressed that the ongoing crises—marked by rampant banditry, kidnapping, and militia violence—demand immediate and decisive action from the government and all relevant stakeholders.
Providing a detailed account of the violence, Rev. Asheshe disclosed that the Kwassam District Church Council (DCC) in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State has been severely impacted by continuous bandit attacks and abductions. Over 20 lives have been lost and more than 100 people, including church members and other residents, have been kidnapped.
He lamented that ECWA had already disbursed more than N300 million in ransom payments, placing an overwhelming financial burden on the church and the affected families, many of whom have been left without means of livelihood.
Asheshe added that the Binawa Local Church Council (LCC) under the Saminaka DCC in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State has also suffered recent attacks. On the night of February 4, 2025, three communities—Majagada 2, Majagada 1, and Tsohon Garin Binawa—were assaulted, resulting in 16 kidnappings, six deaths, and injuries to four others.
“These tragic incidents have thrown the communities into deep mourning and heightened their sense of insecurity,” he said, noting that the attacks in Kwassam and Binawa represent only a fraction of the widespread violence targeting ECWA members nationwide.
Adding to the series of tragedies, Rev. Asheshe recounted a devastating incident that occurred during Easter Monday celebrations in Biliri, Gombe State, where an out-of-control trailer rammed into a Christian procession, killing five and injuring several others.
He also highlighted the increasing violence in Plateau State, where Fulani militias and their sponsors have launched brutal assaults on vulnerable communities.
On April 2, 2025, Hurti Village in Manguna District, Bokkos Local Government Area, was attacked at around 3:00 PM. Forty individuals, including two ECWA pastors, were killed, 240 homes were set ablaze, and large quantities of food and valuable possessions were destroyed or looted.
Similarly, between 12:10 AM and 1:30 AM on April 14, 2025, the Zike and Kimakpa communities in Kwall District, Bassa Local Government Area, were attacked. Fifty people, including women, men, and children, lost their lives, ten others sustained injuries, and extensive damage was inflicted on homes, farmland, and personal belongings.
Rev. Asheshe condemned the attacks as part of a deliberate campaign of terror against predominantly Christian communities, who, he said, have long faced marginalization and insecurity.
Expressing deep sorrow over the escalating violence and suffering, he warned that the long-term impacts, particularly on food security and overall community well-being, are extremely concerning.
He called on the government at all levels, alongside stakeholders, to urgently develop and implement effective strategies to curb banditry, kidnapping, and militia violence, and to restore peace in rural areas.
Rev. Asheshe emphasized the need for collective action to create safer environments for current and future generations. He specifically urged the Federal Government and security agencies to act swiftly in apprehending and prosecuting those responsible for the attacks.
Furthermore, he appealed to the Plateau State Government to provide immediate relief and resettlement assistance for displaced persons and urged the international community, human rights groups, and global church organizations to advocate for the suffering people of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Finally, the ECWA General Secretary encouraged communities to remain vigilant and assured Christians that the church remains steadfast in supporting affected areas.
“We continue to pray for the safe return of those still held captive and for healing and comfort for all affected by these heartbreaking events,” he said.
