Gunmen Kidnap Pastor, Two Worshippers in Benue Church Attack

Gunmen Kidnap Pastor, Two Worshippers in Benue Church Attack

The Nongo u Kristu u i Ser u sha Tar (NKST) Church has confirmed the abduction of one of its clerics, Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde, along with two members of his congregation, following an attack by suspected gunmen in Benue State.

The victims were kidnapped in the early hours of Tuesday at the pastor’s residence, located within the NKST Church premises in Andyar, Ishan Classis, in what church leaders described as another disturbing incident reflecting the growing insecurity in parts of the state.

In a statement issued by its Executive Committee, the church expressed deep sorrow over the attack but urged members to remain calm, steadfast in faith and united in prayers for the safe return of the abducted cleric and the two worshippers.

“It is with a heavy heart, yet with unwavering confidence in the sovereignty of Almighty God, that we announce the unfortunate abduction of our cleric, Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde, along with two members of his congregation,” the statement read.

The church appealed to pastors, members and supporters across Nigeria and beyond to pray for the unconditional release of the victims, expressing hope that they would return home safely.

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The leadership also called on the Benue State Government, the Federal Government, and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure those responsible for the attack are arrested and prosecuted.

According to the church, authorities should adopt more proactive strategies to tackle the rising cases of kidnapping in Benue State and other violent crimes, rather than responding only after attacks have taken place.

The abduction comes amid persistent concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Benue State, where communities have continued to face attacks linked to armed criminal groups and kidnappers. In recent months, residents, religious organisations and civil society groups have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable communities and places of worship.

Security analysts have also warned that kidnappers are increasingly targeting rural communities, religious leaders and travellers, often exploiting difficult terrain and limited security presence to carry out their operations.

The latest incident has heightened anxiety among residents of Andyar and surrounding communities, with many expressing fears over the increasing frequency of abductions across the state.

As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident. Efforts to obtain the command’s reaction were still ongoing.

The kidnapping of Rev. Dr. Gbinde and the two church members adds to the growing list of security challenges confronting Benue State, reinforcing calls for coordinated action by security agencies to stem the wave of kidnappings and restore public confidence.

Gunmen Kidnap Pastor, Two Worshippers in Benue Church Attack