The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has raised alarm over the worsening insecurity in Kaduna and Plateau states, revealing that it paid over N300 million in ransom for kidnapped members.
Speaking during a press conference in Jos, ECWA General Secretary, Rev Ayuba Asheshe, lamented that despite the huge sums paid, over 50 church members remain in captivity. He highlighted recent attacks where over 20 lives were lost and more than 100 people abducted in Kauru Local Council of Kaduna State.
Asheshe also condemned attacks in Plateau State, including the killing of over 40 people and the burning of 240 houses in Hurti Village, Bokkos Local Council. Similar atrocities occurred in Bassa Local Council, where more than 50 people were murdered on April 14.
Meanwhile, in Agatu Local Council of Benue State, Chairman James Ejeh issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen to vacate farmlands ahead of the planting season. During a stakeholders’ meeting at Obagaji, Ejeh stressed the need to protect agriculture, the local economy’s backbone.
The meeting, attended by traditional rulers, Fulani leaders, youth groups, and security officials, ended peacefully. Fulani leaders requested a one-week grace period for relocation, which was granted. Agatu youths pledged to support a non-violent evacuation process, while security agencies promised full backing.
Both ECWA and Agatu leaders called for urgent government intervention to end the cycle of violence, safeguard farming communities, and restore peace in affected areas.
