Gunmen Kill Two and Kidnap Pastor, Worshippers in Nigerian Church Attack

ABUJA, Nigeria — November 20, 2025 — Armed assailants attacked a church in Nigeria, killing two individuals and abducting the pastor along with several worshippers, officials said Wednesday. This incident marks the latest in a series of violent attacks targeting Christian communities in the country.

According to authorities, the gunmen stormed the church during a service, opening fire and taking hostages before fleeing the scene. The exact number of people kidnapped has not been confirmed, but officials indicated that the victims include the church’s pastor and multiple congregants.

Local security forces responded to the attack and have launched an investigation while conducting search operations to locate the abducted individuals. Efforts to secure the release of the hostages are ongoing, according to law enforcement sources.

The attack has raised concerns about the escalating violence against religious minorities in Nigeria, particularly in regions where armed groups have intensified their operations. Christian places of worship have increasingly become targets amid broader security challenges faced by the country.

Nigeria has experienced a surge in violent incidents over the past several years, involving various militant and criminal groups. These attacks often result in loss of life, displacement of communities, and heightened tensions among religious and ethnic groups.

Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for stronger measures to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further attacks on places of worship. The government has pledged to improve security and bring perpetrators to justice, but challenges remain due to the complex security environment.

This latest assault underscores the ongoing risks faced by religious communities in Nigeria and the urgent need for coordinated responses to address the root causes of such violence.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as investigations continue. The international community has also expressed concern over the rising incidents of violence targeting civilians in the region.

As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the church attack, and security agencies are exploring all possible leads to identify those behind the violence.

The incident adds to the growing list of attacks on churches and religious figures in Nigeria, highlighting the persistent threat to religious freedom and safety in the country.