A pastor of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN), also known as HEKAN, has been killed and more than 20 worshippers abducted following an attack by suspected bandits in Farin Dutse, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, plunging the farming community into fear as heavily armed assailants stormed the area, firing indiscriminately before taking several residents captive, including members of the HEKAN Church.
In a statement confirming the tragedy, the President of the Church, Rev. Dr. Amos Kiri, identified the slain pastor as Rev. Yahaya Kambasiya. He explained that the cleric had taken refuge on a nearby farm during the attack but was shot dead when he attempted to return to the village, thinking the gunmen had departed.
“Reverend Kambasiya and a few others hid until the gunfire subsided. Sadly, when he came out believing it was safe, he was shot from behind and died instantly,” Rev. Kiri stated.
The church said the late pastor’s body has been deposited in a mortuary, and discussions with his family are underway to finalize burial arrangements.
The attack adds to a growing wave of violence in parts of Kaduna State, where rural communities continue to face recurring assaults by armed groups targeting residents for ransom.
Source:Africa Publicity
