The chancellor of Zaria Diocese, Reverend Father Isek Augustine, confirmed the incident in a letter addressed to all priests and faithful.

According to the diocese chancellor, Mr Ezema was kidnapped at his residence, situated at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Rumi, on Tuesday, December 2 at around 11:30 p.m.

The chancellor stated, “We call on all men and women of goodwill to pray for the safe and quick release of our Priest and others from the hands of their abductors.”

“Through the intercession of our Lady, the Mother of all Priests, and our mother, may our brother, and others return to us safe and sound.”

The Governor made this disclosure while speaking on the persistent violence that has plagued the state since 2001, a crisis he and other stakeholders have previously described as targeted and genocidal. 

The figures underscore the scale of the humanitarian tragedy and the devastating impact of the attacks on the social and economic fabric of Plateau State, once known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”

The attacks, which have targeted numerous local government areas, have led to the displacement of tens of thousands of residents. 

In addition to the staggering death toll, the destruction of infrastructure, farmlands, and homes across the 420 affected communities has created a long-term crisis of internal displacement and trauma for victims.

The Governor emphasized the urgent need for a decisive and comprehensive security approach to end the cycle of violence and allow displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes. 

Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served for the victims. He stressed that his government is taking firm steps to secure the state, emphasizing that impunity for these violent acts must end to restore lasting peace.

He noted that the creation of special security task forces and community engagement initiatives are central to the state’s strategy to halt the attacks and rebuild trust among various ethnic and religious groups. The government is also said to be working to implement policies aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict, including land disputes and poverty.

IGP Egbetokun disclosed this during a strategic meeting with senior police officers from the rank of Commissioner and above.

He stated that the action was in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is already being implemented accordingly.

The IGP explained that the affected personnel had been debriefed and redeployed to areas where they would be more useful for effective operations.

He further noted that about 120,000 police personnel are currently attached to private individuals as security escorts.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the worshippers were released on Sunday.

The statement, however, did not disclose how the abductees regained their freedom.

“After many days of hard work by security forces and government representatives, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is excited to announce the freedom of 38 persons who were recently abducted in an attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Eruku, Ekiti LGA, Kwara State,” it partly read.

The state government attributed the rescue of the victims to the “hands-on approach” of President Bola Tinubu, who, it said, “personally led the efforts” to free the abductees.

“The governor is immensely grateful to President Bola Tinubu for his direct initiative that made this happen.

“The President had called off his scheduled trip for the G20 Meeting in South Africa to attend to the breaches in Kwara and Kebbi states.

“He had also directed heightened security deployments to Kwara, in what underlined his firm commitment to the safety and well-being of our people and Nigerians as a whole,” the statement disclosed.

The governor also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Police for their efforts.

“The governor also thanks members of the security forces across board, thought leaders, religious institutions, and all Kwarans for their support and goodwill since the unfortunate incident,” the statement added.

Gunmen had last Tuesday launched an attack at the parish, abducting 38 worshippers and killing three people during a church service.

Eyewitnesses in the community told Channels Television that the attackers stormed the area “suddenly and heavily armed,” forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety.

“They came around nightfall and started shooting. Two people were killed instantly, and we don’t even know how many were taken,” one resident said.

The bandits had demanded ₦3 billion for the release of the victims, but later reduced the ransom to ₦760 million.

Irked by the attack, youths in the community staged a protest.

The protesters, who blocked the Ilorin–Kabba highway at the entrance of the town, causing heavy traffic disruption, alleged that last Tuesday’s attack, which lasted close to an hour, occurred without any response from security operatives stationed in the community.

In response to the attack and others, President Tinubu postponed his scheduled trips to Johannesburg in South Africa and Luanda, Angola, as he awaited further security briefings on the kidnapped Kebbi schoolgirls and the attack on the church worshippers.

He also directed the police to go after the bandits who attacked worshippers.

The church held its first service on Sunday, where it clarified the actual number of victims abducted.

The Church Secretary, Michael Agbabiaka, said that despite fear and trauma, church leaders encouraged members to attend the service as a show of faith and resilience.
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‎“As you can see, only a few people are present, but we thank God for life and for strengthening us.

“We also appreciate the government for deploying security operatives who are now patrolling the town and the church,” he added.
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In his sermon, the presiding pastor, Bamidele Lawrence, described the incident as a test of faith and told the congregation that God promised that the abducted worshippers would return alive, likening their situation to the biblical trials of the Israelites.

Since gaining independence on October 1, 1960, Nigeria has grown into a vibrant nation, rich in culture, diversity, and potential. We are celebrating a land richly blessed by God: vast natural resources, dynamic people, and remarkable resilience. Yet, we must also face the painful truth that our journey has been marred by persistent challenges — chief among them, violence and insecurity.

From terrorism and banditry to kidnappings, communal clashes, political thuggery, and urban crime, the spectre of insecurity continues to haunt our nation. Countless lives have been lost, families displaced, and dreams shattered. For many citizens, fear has become a daily companion.

Nigeria’s security challenges are deeply rooted in historical, economic, and social complexities. Poverty and unemployment, particularly among our youth, fuel crime and extremism. Unequal resource distribution stokes ethnic and religious tensions, while weak governance and corruption erode trust in institutions like the police and military. The proliferation of small arms, porous borders, and inadequate security infrastructure further complicate the situation.

We must pause at this 65th anniversary and ask with honesty and hope: Can Nigeria ever truly find peace?

Peace is not merely the absence of conflict — it is the fruit of justice, righteousness, and right relationships. Nations do not stumble into peace by accident; they build it intentionally through truth, fairness, accountability, and mutual respect. Our insecurity is not just a policing problem; it is the bitter harvest of deeper issues: injustice, inequality, corruption, poverty, religious intolerance, and tribal hatred.

Peace is a collective responsibility. Government, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, and citizens must work together.

Let us reject division, embrace unity, and amplify stories of hope. The private sector can drive economic growth, while the media can inspire resilience.

The Christian vision of peace is deeply rooted in the nature and mission of God. Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), came not only to reconcile us to God but also to reconcile us to one another. The Church, as His Body, is called to reflect this mission — to be a prophetic voice against violence, a healing presence among victims, and a bridge of reconciliation in a divided society.

Our faith assures us that nations can be healed, wounds can be mended, and peace can flourish where there is commitment to righteousness and the courage to change.

Marking 65 years of independence should remind us that nationhood is still a work in progress. Nigeria’s story is not finished — and neither is God’s work in us.

Peace is possible, but it requires a new national commitment to truth, justice, forgiveness, and unity:

1. Strengthening Governance: Transparent leadership and accountability are vital. Tackling corruption in security agencies and equipping our forces with modern tools can restore public trust. Community policing can bridge gaps between citizens and law enforcement.

2. Empowering Our People: Economic inclusion is critical. Investments in education, vocational training, and job creation can empower our youth and reduce the appeal of crime. Rural development can address regional neglect and foster equity.

3. Fostering Unity: Nigeria’s diversity is our strength. Inclusive dialogue among ethnic, religious, and regional leaders can heal divisions. Reconciliation processes, inspired by global models, can address historical grievances.

4. Reforming Security: A modernized, decentralized security system, with state and local governments playing active roles, can address localized threats. Technology like surveillance and intelligence-sharing can enhance our response.

5. Global Partnerships: Collaborating with neighboring countries to secure borders and curb illegal arms, alongside international support for counterterrorism, can bolster our efforts.

As we celebrate our nation’s 65th anniversary, let us renew our dedication — as Christians and patriots — to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). May God grant Nigeria the gift of peace, and may we, His people, become instruments of that peace for generations to come.

Princewill Ireoba

CANON THEOLOGIAN, CATHEDRAL OF ADVENT, ABUJA & DIRECTOR OF THEOLOGICAL MATTERS, CHURCH OF NIGERIA

He revealed that between 2019 and 2023, a staggering 55,910 Christians were reportedly killed by terrorists and bandits in Nigeria, accounting for 90% of all Christian fatalities globally during that period.

The Bishop urgently implored the Federal Government to take decisive action to curb the escalating violence that has transformed Nigeria into a “land flowing with tears and blood.”

Beyond the critical security concerns, Bishop Ide also addressed other pressing national issues. He advocated for a new civilian constitution to tackle the country’s deep-seated ethnic and religious divisions and proposed the establishment of a National Reconciliation Commission to foster healing.

In regards to the economy, he highlighted the rampant inflation, mounting foreign debt, and unfavorable foreign exchange rates, noting that recent economic reforms have increased the level of poverty among Nigerians. While commending the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) initiative, he cautioned against inconsistent policy implementation.

Furthermore, the Bishop spoke regarding the high unemployment rate, the alarmingly low life expectancy of Nigerians (averaging 54 years, 6 months, and 3 days), and the insufficient budgetary allocation to the health sector, especially following USAID’s suspension of funding for crucial programs.

Concluding his address, he touched upon the pervasive issue of gender-based violence and lauded the Delta State Governor’s M.O.R.E. agenda.

He also urged for a peaceful resolution to the recent ward delineation disputes in the Warri Federal Constituency to prevent a recurrence of past conflicts.

In the speech released by the Church of Nigeria’s Communication officer, Korede Akintunde, Archbishop Lamido lamented the spate of insecurity and personal attacks on his person and family which mostly hindered his pastoral ministry in the last four years now. He also noted that he has no grudges with anyone who has done or planned any evil against him and his family members. He thanked everyone who has played roles in his life and ministry and wished the Diocese of Wusasa a great time ahead praying for the Lord to give them a pastor as the new bishop after him.

Below is the full valedictory speech of the Most Rev’d Prof. Ali Buba Lamido (Rtd).

Protocol

It is with great honour and humility, yet with a sense of pride, that I welcome you to this thanksgiving service to mark my valedictory as Bishop of Wusasa. We are so so delighted to have you. We are humbled by the fact that in spite of your tight schedules and scarcity of petrol, you still found time to be here. May the Lord bless your labour of love.

We cannot express how grateful we are for the opportunity and blessing of leading the clergy, lay leadership, and congregations of the Diocese of Wusasa in our common goal of transforming the world via the making of disciples of Jesus. You have been dependable and productive collaborators. Your kindness and consideration are immeasurable.

As we offer our primary thanks to God for His continued blessing upon us as a diocese it is also right that we should say “thank you” to all those who serve Christ and serve the church in contributing to the growth of this diocese. Some may be people that we see every week involved in activities, but many are hidden behind the scenes, and simple, apparently, small acts of service ensure that this project is a reality. Without the voluntary input of so many, without the generosity of time, skills, gifts, and finances of so many it would be impossible to finish this gigantic project. Thank you to everyone who contributes in any way.

For all of the Diocese’s goodwill toward us over our years as their bishop, we are incredibly appreciative. You are this local church’s greatest asset. Signs of a vibrant church filled with the spirit of missionary disciples include your commitment, your desire to grow in your faith, your willingness to face challenges head-on, your openness to be a part of the diversity that God has blessed us with, and your embracing of the core values of hospitality, reconciliation, faith sharing, and collaboration. You are the body of Christ’s followers, called to share the gospel with your family, neighbors, and society at large so that people can live hopeful Our personal experience negotiating instability within this Diocese emphasizes how resilient and determined one must be to fulfill pastoral responsibilities in the face of hardship.

Our unwavering dedication to serving the community acts as a beacon of hope amid uncertainty, despite the hurdles being enormous.  We praise God for providing priceless insights into the challenges of leadership in conflict-affected areas, as seen by the numerous kidnappings and banditries that have occurred recently.   

My experience highlights the vital significance of resilience, adaptive leadership, and an unrelenting dedication to helping the community in the face of hardship. The health of the Diocese and its members is intrinsically linked to the position of a bishop. But when insecurity seeps throughout the community as a whole, carrying out this responsibility becomes a difficult undertaking full of obstacles. 

The community of Wusasa Diocese has struggled with the difficulties of banditry, and kidnapping. In addition to endangering people’s physical safety, these difficulties cause anxiety and uncertainty, which weakens the socioeconomic foundation of the area.  We have had multiple threats from armed persons in the bishop’s court. It is frequently necessary to avoid the Diocese for extended periods to maintain one’s safety. While providing for personal safety, this physical distance makes it difficult to carry out pastoral responsibilities and sustain community bonds.  Without the incredibly good priests who have been serving the Diocese as a family for the past three and a half years, it would have had an impact on my administrative skills, function, and influence.  There are several different leadership problems when a diocese is in such circumstances. Making wise decisions and using flexible leadership techniques are necessary to strike a balance between the need to provide spiritual guidance and the protection of the clergy and congregation.

My safety is impacted by the insecurity, which also interferes with family life. I frequently have to distance myself from my family due to the persistent fear of violence and instability, which exacerbates an already difficult and uncertain position by causing emotional distress.  

Because of the unstable security environment, traveling within the Diocese carries major dangers. Highways turn into dangerous areas where there is a constant risk of ambushes, kidnappings, and armed group attacks. Traveling with extreme caution and careful planning is required because of this ongoing threat.  Additionally, it frequently caused high blood pressure levels to rise before, during, and after trips.  Glory to God that we are still here to bear witness to his benevolence. Our stewardship as bishop has witnessed some ups and downs and straights.

We have enjoyed support from many. However, some consciously or ignorantly constituted a cog in the wheel of progress. Let me state in very clear terms that as I leave this place, I leave without grudges against anyone. Their actions have succeeded in bringing out the best out of me. My advice to them is to have a change of heart and corporate with the new bishop that will be elected.

We will leave you with this commission: never forget that you are God’s people, sent to tell of the great deeds of Jesus, who brought you out of the depths of darkness and into his marvelous light. Make new disciples and shine your light amid political unrest, economic upheaval, racial injustice, and a persistent epidemic. Recall that you are God’s chosen people for this specific moment and location. Go ahead and dream big and accomplish God-sized dreams.  Remain steadfast and unified in support of Jesus’ message.

We will now bid you all farewell and take our leave, wishing and praying for your continued success. We would now give your immortal souls to the one who originally entrusted them to us, anticipating the day we must see you again in front of the Judge of the Quick and the Dead. We pray that we may never stop sincerely praying for your prosperity and that we may never forget these individuals, who have been our special charge for such a long time. God grant you a devoted pastor who knows his mind and will, who can properly chastise sinners, carefully screen instructors with discernment, and lead you to everlasting bliss. May you genuinely have a bright and sparkling light put up in this candlestick, and may you be willing to rejoice in his brightness not just for a short while but for the entirety of his long life.

And let us be included in the prayers of all God’s people who, regardless of their beliefs regarding the norms of church communion, have a tranquil spirit, and are peaceful and obedient in Israel. And may we all never forget our upcoming serious gathering on that big day of the Lord—the day of final judgment and the eternal, unchangeable word—Amen.

Archbishop Ali Buba Lamido was born on the 29th of August 1959 and hails from Shelleng Local Government of Adamawa State in Nigeria. He became a parish priest in the year 1993, was elected the first bishop of Wusasa Diocese in 1997, became the first elected Dean of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion in February 2018, a position he served its full 5 years term till February 2023.

Reports said he left a funeral ceremony at Nnewichi village, Nnewi town, Anambra State, when this incident occurred.

It was noted that the kidnappers intercepted him along the road within Uruagu village, Nnewi town in Anambra State.

Also, Mr. Justice Anyanwu, a church worker, who accompanied him to the funeral service was unfortunately a victim in the hands of the said kidnappers.

There is no further information for now on this matter, because no communication has been orchestrated from any side as the time of filing this report

This was confirmed to ACNNTV by Venerable Iluno, the administrator to the bishop of Nnewi Diocese.

He urge everyone to once again join others in praying for their release and for this barbaric act to come to an end.

ACNNTV

They are being taken to the hospital for medical attention.

This news was broken to ACNNTV by the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria…

The Director of Youth of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion was kidnapped in Delta on Friday 17th June 2022.

Glory be to God…

#kidnapping
#insecurity

They are being taken to the hospital for medical attention.

This news was broken to ACNNTV by the Bishop of Omu Aran Diocese, Rt. Rev. Festus Sobanke and confirmed by the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Venerable Paul Dajur.

Bishop Aderogba who is the diocesan bishop of Jebba Diocese, Anglican Communion was kidnapped on Oyo-Ogbomoso road on Sunday evening 12th of June 2022 on his way to Jebba from an episcopal assignment in Yewa Diocese.

The kidnappers demanded a sum of 50 Million Naira for them to be released.

More details later….