The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has revealed that it has spent more than N300 million on ransom payments to secure the release of kidnapped members, with around 50 others still in captivity. The church, expressing grave concern over a growing wave of violence, highlighted Kaduna and Plateau states as the most affected areas.
Speaking to journalists in Jos, the General Secretary of ECWA, Rev. Ayuba Asheshe, said the church is grappling with a series of crises, including banditry, kidnappings, and violent militia attacks. He called for urgent and coordinated action from the government and all stakeholders to address the worsening security situation.
Rev. Asheshe shared details of numerous attacks, pointing out that in Kwassam District Church Council (DCC) in Kauru LGA of Kaduna State, over 20 lives have been lost and more than 100 people, including church members and local residents, have been abducted. The church has spent more than N300 million on ransoms, placing enormous financial pressure on both ECWA and affected families—many of whom have lost their means of livelihood.
He also mentioned recent attacks in the Binawa Local Church Council (LCC) of ECWA Saminaka DCC in Lere LGA, Kaduna State. On the night of February 4, 2025, armed assailants attacked three communities—Majagada 1, Majagada 2, and Tsohon Garin Binawa—kidnapping 16 people, killing six, and injuring four others.
“These incidents have thrown the communities into fear and mourning, and they are just a few among many similar tragedies faced by ECWA members across Nigeria,” Asheshe said.
Another devastating incident occurred in Gombe State during the Easter Monday celebration when a trailer truck lost control and rammed into a Christian procession in Biliri, killing five and injuring several others.
Rev. Asheshe also condemned a series of escalating violent attacks in Plateau State, which he said were perpetrated by Fulani militias and their backers. On April 2, 2025, Hurti Village in Manguna District of Bokkos LGA was attacked, leaving 40 people dead—including two ECWA pastors—burning 240 homes, and looting or destroying large stores of food and valuables. Many villagers remain missing.
Further violence erupted on April 14, 2025, when the Zike and Kimakpa communities in Kwall District of Bassa LGA were attacked between midnight and 1:30 AM. Fifty people, including women and children, were killed, ten others injured, and property—including homes and farmlands—was destroyed.
“These attacks appear to be part of a deliberate campaign of terror against predominantly Christian communities, who have long suffered marginalisation and insecurity,” Asheshe said.
He expressed ECWA’s profound sorrow over the continued suffering of its members and warned of serious long-term consequences, especially regarding food security and the overall wellbeing of communities.
Rev. Asheshe called on federal, state, and local governments to act swiftly and decisively to end the violence. He urged security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and appealed to the Plateau State Government for emergency relief and resettlement assistance for displaced persons.
He also reached out to the international community, human rights groups, and global Christian organisations, asking them to stand in solidarity with the affected communities in Nigeria.
Despite the challenges, Asheshe said ECWA remains committed to supporting victims, partnering with authorities for lasting solutions, and praying for the safe return of those still in captivity. He also urged communities to stay vigilant and prepared in the face of ongoing threats.
