Bandits Release More ECWA Worshippers After Payment Of Ransom
Bandits have released the final batch of six abductees taken from Aiyetoro Kiri community in Bunu land, Kogi State, following weeks of intense negotiations and ransom payments. The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association (AKBDA) confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, describing the release as the end of a long, traumatic ordeal for the victims, their families, and the entire community.
The abductees were members of First ECWA Aiyetoro Kiri who were kidnapped during an attack on the community on December 14, 2025. According to AKBDA, the release of the six individuals marks the conclusion of a phased process that began earlier this year after prolonged engagement with the abductors.
The association disclosed that the first batch of seven abducted persons was released on January 1, 2026, following initial negotiations and payments. Despite the emotional toll and mounting financial burden on families and the community, talks continued, leading to the release of three additional victims on January 12, 2026. Fourteen more abductees were freed the following day, while the remaining six were released in the most recent development. AKBDA said securing the freedom of all the abducted members required “enormous resources,” including substantial financial contributions from families, community members, and sympathisers, as well as sustained dialogue under difficult and uncertain conditions.
The association expressed profound gratitude to God for the safe return of all abductees and thanked the families, residents of Aiyetoro Kiri, friends of the community, and well-wishers who offered support throughout the crisis.
AKBDA also acknowledged the role of media organisations for keeping public attention on the plight of the abducted victims and amplifying calls for their release.
AKBDA called for lasting peace and improved security in Aiyetoro Kiri and the wider Bunu land, urging relevant authorities to take decisive action to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
