By SUNTV Global Channel | January 21, 2026
Relief swept through Aiyetoro Kiri community in Bunu land, Kogi State, on Wednesday as terrorists released the final six worshippers abducted during a deadly attack on the area, bringing a traumatic chapter to an end after weeks of negotiations and ransom payments.
The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association (AKBDA) confirmed the development in a statement, describing the release as a moment of deep emotional relief for the victims, their families, and the entire community.
The abductees, members of First ECWA Aiyetoro Kiri, were kidnapped on December 14, 2025, when armed men invaded the community. Their captivity triggered widespread fear, grief, and an intense struggle by families and community leaders to secure their freedom.
According to AKBDA, the releases occurred in phases following prolonged engagement with the abductors. Seven victims were freed on January 1, 2026, after initial negotiations. Talks continued despite growing financial and emotional pressure, leading to the release of three more victims on January 12.
A major breakthrough followed the next day when fourteen abductees regained their freedom. The release of the remaining six on Wednesday marked the conclusion of the painful process.
AKBDA disclosed that securing the release of all the abducted worshippers required enormous resources, including significant financial contributions from affected families, community members, and sympathisers, alongside sustained and delicate negotiations conducted under tense and uncertain conditions.
The association expressed profound gratitude to God for the safe return of all abductees and thanked families, residents of Aiyetoro Kiri, friends of the community, and well-wishers for their unwavering support. It also acknowledged media organisations for keeping public attention on the plight of the victims and amplifying calls for their release.
While celebrating the reunion of the victims with their families, AKBDA renewed its call for lasting peace and improved security in Aiyetoro Kiri and across Bunu land, urging relevant authorities to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor security developments across Kogi State and other parts of the country.
