By Our Correspondent
The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Worldwide has raised alarm over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, condemning what it described as persistent and targeted attacks on Christian communities, clergy, and innocent citizens.
In a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Rev. Dr. Job Ayuba Bagat, ECWA expressed deep concern over the continued climate of fear across many parts of the country, particularly following the abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Rev. Bagat said the attacks represent “an assault on the fundamental rights to life, worship, and security as enshrined in the Constitution of Nigeria.”
“ECWA itself has suffered grievously from this national crisis. Our pastors, church workers, and members across multiple states have endured violent attacks, kidnappings, displacement, and loss of life,” he stated.
The ECWA President described the armed invasion of churches during worship services on Sunday, January 18, 2026, as “sacrilegious and barbaric,” noting that the incident had been confirmed by the Nigeria Police Force.
“ECWA is especially horrified by the confirmed abduction of worshippers in Kurmin Wali. The invasion of churches during worship is a desecration of sacred spaces and a direct attack on humanity,” Rev. Bagat said.
He disclosed that the Kurmin Wali incident was part of a broader pattern of violence affecting ECWA communities nationwide.
“Before this attack, about one hundred ECWA members from Kwassam District, thirty from Saminaka District in Kaduna, and another thirty from Kabba District in Kogi State were already in captivity, with families facing unbearable ransom demands,” he revealed.
According to him, several ECWA District Church Councils remain under serious threat in states including Kaduna, Katsina, Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, and Niger.
While acknowledging recent efforts by the Federal Government and the deployment of security personnel to Kajuru, ECWA faulted delays in response, warning that such lapses embolden criminals.
“Security responses must be proactive, sustained, intelligence-driven, and preventive,” Rev. Bagat said.
He reminded government at all levels of their responsibility to protect citizens, citing Romans 13:4 which describes governing authorities as “God’s servant for your good.”
ECWA specifically called on authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering, ensure swift response to threats, prosecute perpetrators and their sponsors, and provide adequate protection for places of worship and other vulnerable locations.
The church also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and citizens to promote unity and shared vigilance.
“Communities must cooperate with security agencies and lawfully resist criminal elements through collective action,” the statement read.
ECWA reaffirmed its solidarity with all victims of insecurity, including members of other denominations and affected Nigerians.
“We extend our deepest prayers and pastoral support to the families of the abducted and all those living in fear,” Rev. Bagat said.
Encouraging Nigerians not to lose hope, he quoted Psalm 34:19, which says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
He concluded by urging citizens to remain united and steadfast in the pursuit of peace.
“ECWA reaffirms its commitment to prayer, peacebuilding, advocacy, and practical support for affected communities. May God comfort the afflicted, strengthen the weary, and grant Nigeria enduring peace,” he prayed.
