Attack Church in Northwest Nigeria, Abduct Worshippers During Sunday Service

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Armed men suspected to be members of the Lakurawa gang attacked a church on Sunday in Zagami village, located in the Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, northwest Nigeria. Several worshippers were abducted during the morning service.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants arrived on motorcycles and stormed the church while the congregation was gathered, firing into the air and causing panic. A number of worshippers were taken into the nearby forest, though the exact number remains unknown.

According to Daily Post, the gunmen opened fire upon arrival before forcing their way into the building and seizing members of the congregation.

One of the worshippers, Ezekiel Danjuma, who narrowly escaped the attack, described the experience as terrifying. He said the attackers came in large numbers and surrounded the church.

“They came in shooting. Some of us escaped through the back, but many others were taken,” Danjuma said.

Zagami is a small farming community in Kebbi South Senatorial District, which includes the local government areas of Danko/Wasagu, Fakai, Ngaski, Sakaba, Shanga, Yauri, and Zuru. The incident has left residents in shock and fear.

As of the time of filing this report, police authorities had not released an official statement. Residents are calling on the Kebbi State Government and security agencies to step up efforts to rescue the abducted and reinforce security across the region.