The leadership of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has decried the escalating violence, banditry, and kidnappings in Kaduna and Plateau states, urging the Federal Government to take swift and decisive action to tackle the crisis.
Speaking at a press conference in Jos, the General Secretary of ECWA, Rev. Ayuba Asheshe, expressed deep concern over the continued attacks on the Church’s members and communities.
“ECWA expresses its profound grief and deep concern over a surge of violent incidents impacting its members and communities in Kaduna and Plateau states,” he said.
“These interconnected crises, marked by banditry, kidnappings, and brutal militia attacks, demand immediate and decisive intervention from government and all stakeholders.”
Rev. Asheshe revealed that the Church has already spent more than N300 million in ransom payments to secure the release of kidnapped members but noted that over 50 individuals remain in captivity.
“The Church has already spent over 300 million Naira in ransom payments, yet over 50 individuals remain in captivity, placing an unbearable financial strain on the Church and affected families, many of whom have lost their livelihoods,” he stated.
He described the situation in Kaduna State as particularly dire, citing recent incidents in Kwassam DCC of Kauru Local Government Area.
“In Kaduna State, the Kwassam DCC of the Kauru Local Government Area has been ravaged by relentless banditry and kidnappings in recent weeks. Over 20 lives have been lost, and over 100 individuals, including Church members and community residents, have been abducted,” he said.
Rev. Asheshe also warned that the attacks on farming communities are threatening food security in the region.
“The targeting of predominantly farming communities in the region further exacerbates the crisis, posing a significant threat to food security in the affected areas and neighboring communities due to the disruption of agricultural activities,” he said.
The Church urged the authorities to act swiftly to restore security and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians in the affected regions.
