Kabba, Kogi State – In a decisive move to protect residents and worshippers, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman of the Kabba/Bunu Traditional Council, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, has ordered the suspension of all church activities in Kogi community until further notice.
The directive comes amid a surge in security breaches in the area, including recent attacks on churches and the discovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition by state security forces. Authorities cited credible intelligence that criminal gangs have been targeting worship centres, raising concerns about public safety.
FG Confirms Suspension of Church Activities in Kogi Community
According to a notice issued by the Coordinator of CAN in Kabba/Bunu LGA, Rev. Kayode Osatuyi, the decision was made after a meeting with the monarch, traditional rulers, and church leaders at the Obaro’s palace.
The notice stated that the temporary closure of church services was necessary following a credible security report indicating threats to worshippers.
“Following the directive from the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman Kabba/Bunu Traditional Council, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, all church services in Kabba/Bunu LGA are suspended until further notice,” the statement read.
Osatuyi also emphasized that the decision followed consultations with the state leadership of CAN, underscoring that all churches must comply in the interest of public safety.
Security Concerns Prompt Suspension of Church Activities in Kogi Community
The Kogi State Government recently announced that security operatives recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from criminal hideouts during joint operations across parts of the state.
This discovery has heightened fears over the safety of worship centres, particularly those located on the outskirts of towns and villages.
Last month, worshippers at a Cherubim and Seraphim Church were attacked, while another incident at the Evangelical Church Winning All in Kiri resulted in the deaths of two congregants.
In the most recent attack, bandits reportedly stormed a church during Sunday service, abducting about 20 worshippers.
These incidents highlight the persistent threat of violence targeting religious institutions and underscore the rationale behind suspending church activities in Kogi community.
CAN Urges Continuous Prayers and Compliance
Rev. Osatuyi urged residents to maintain faith and continue prayers for peace and stability in Kabba/Bunu land.
He assured that churches would be informed promptly once security conditions improve, enabling a safe resumption of worship activities.
“The suspension of church services is a temporary measure to ensure the safety of our members and the community,” he said.
“We encourage prayers for peace and calm, and we will communicate when it is safe to resume activities.”
Government Advisories on Worship Centre Safety
In response to increasing attacks on religious institutions, the Kogi State Government has issued directives cautioning worship centres, particularly those situated in crime-prone areas, to reconsider holding large congregations until security can be guaranteed.
The state’s advisory aims to prevent further loss of lives and abductions during religious gatherings.
Impact on Residents and the Faith Community
The suspension of church activities in Kogi community has had a significant effect on worshippers, many of whom rely on regular church gatherings for spiritual guidance and social support. Faith leaders have called for patience and understanding, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing human life over congregational routines.
Security Measures and Community Response
Security agencies in Kogi State have intensified patrols and operations in response to repeated attacks. Collaborative efforts between traditional rulers, religious leaders, and law enforcement are ongoing to monitor threats and ensure the safety of the community.
Oba Solomon Owoniyi reiterated that traditional authorities are committed to safeguarding residents and working closely with security operatives to curb criminal activities. “Our priority is the protection of life and property,” he said.
Authorities have assured that church activities in Kogi community will resume once the security situation stabilizes.
Continuous engagement with CAN and regular intelligence reports will guide the decision on reopening churches safely.
Meanwhile, residents are urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement efforts.
The suspension of church activities in Kogi community reflects a growing trend of precautionary measures across regions experiencing heightened insecurity.
It underscores the need for proactive strategies, joint community efforts, and government support to ensure worshippers can practice their faith without fear of attacks.
