🔥🕊️ Church Abductions in Nigeria Follow Week of Rising Threats and Violence

GOOD MORNING.

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SPECIAL REPORT

Attack on Faithful Sparks Fear in Ogbese Community

On May 26, 2025, three members of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry were abducted by gunmen in the Kasemola area of Ogbese, Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State. The victims were returning from a Bible study session when they were intercepted and taken by unknown assailants. This latest incident has heightened anxiety among local Christian communities, who fear a growing trend of religiously targeted violence.

The abductors have since contacted the victims’ families, demanding a ransom of ₦15 million (approximately $10,000 USD). As negotiations continue, the community remains on edge, calling for urgent government intervention and improved security measures in religious spaces.

Heightened Security Measures Following Threats to Worship Centers

On May 25, the Ondo State Police Command intensified security around worship centers, including the previously attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, in response to reports of potential bandit attacks. Although the source of these threats remained unverified, the police emphasized the need for vigilance and urged the public to avoid spreading unconfirmed information to prevent panic.

Security Forces Mobilized as Church Rallies in Prayer

In response to the abductions, a joint operation involving the Nigerian Police Force and the Amotekun Corps has been launched to rescue the kidnapped individuals. Authorities have assured the public that all efforts are being made to track down the culprits and ensure the safe return of the victims.

Church leaders have organized nightly prayer vigils, seeking divine intervention while urging the government to prioritize the protection of worshippers. The incident reflects broader concerns about insecurity in Nigeria, especially in rural and religiously active areas, where communities remain vulnerable to kidnappings and violence.

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REGIONAL THREATS

AFRICA

• BENUE, NIGERIA – On May 24, 2025, Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo of St. John’s Quasi Parish in Jimba was ambushed and shot by suspected armed herders along the Makurdi–Naka Road in Gwer West Local Government Area. Two passengers traveling with him were abducted during the attack. Fr. Atongo, who was returning from a memorial service for two priests killed in 2018, was rescued by security personnel and is currently receiving medical treatment.

MIDDLE EAST & CENTRAL ASIA

• No current updates.

SOUTH & SOUTHEAST ASIA

• KAWARDHA, INDIA – On May 18, 2025, a Christian family in Kawardha, Chhattisgarh, was attacked during a Sunday prayer service by members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, who accused them of forced religious conversions. Pastor Jose Thomas and his family, originally from Kerala and residents of Kawardha for 35 years, were assaulted, and the pastor was arrested by local police. Despite previous acquittals on similar charges, the family now faces renewed threats and has been forced into hiding.

LATIN AMERICA & CARIBBEAN

• No current updates.

NORTH AMERICA

• SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – On May 24, 2025, a Christian prayer rally organized by Mayday USA at Cal Anderson Park in Seattle escalated into violence when counter-protesters, including members of Antifa and LGBTQ+ activists, confronted attendees. According to event co-leader Ross Johnston, a counter-protester allegedly brandished a knife at a 17-year-old participant, and other disruptive acts occurred during the event. The Seattle Police Department reported 23 arrests related to the clashes. In response to these events, the FBI has initiated an investigation into allegations of targeted violence against religious groups, emphasizing the importance of protecting religious freedom.

EUROPE

• PORTLAOISE, IRELAND – On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Gardaí arrested a 16-year-old male armed with a large kitchen knife on the grounds of SS Peter and Paul’s Church in Portlaoise during a First Communion ceremony. The teenager was promptly detained by two Gardaí present in the area; no injuries were reported.

• SKOPJE, NORTH MACEDONIA – On May 26, 2025, police in Skopje arrested two local men, R.D. (30) and M.J. (39), for the theft of religious items from the “St. Spas” church in Sopishte, reported on May 19. The suspects confessed during official questioning, and the stolen items were recovered and returned to the church.

AUSTRALIA & OCEANIA

• No current updates.

PRAYER REQUESTS

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Pray that we would be guided by the Holy Spirit in every decision, big or small. That we would be good stewards of the information we manage. And that this network would truly become a tool to protect, encourage, and equip believers around the world.

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