Okunran is among several communities in Yagba West recently affected by banditry and kidnappings, raising concerns over safety during evening hours.
Fear swept through Okunran in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State on the evening of December 13, 2025, after armed bandits stormed the community at around 7:00 p.m.
A source within the town said the attackers abducted “a Hausa man during the raid,” which occurred in the heart of the community, triggering panic and forcing residents to remain indoors.
Residents are appealing for an increased security presence and urgent measures to prevent further attacks.
Okunran is among several communities in Yagba West recently affected by banditry and kidnappings, raising concerns over safety during evening hours.
Just last Friday, a farmer identified as Dada Babatege, popularly known as “Old Soldier,” was abducted from his farm behind St. Kizito’s College in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Sources told SaharaReporters that the kidnappers stormed the farmland in broad daylight, seized Babatege, and disappeared into nearby bushes before help could arrive.
The incident has heightened tension in the community, where residents say kidnappings have been on the rise despite repeated calls for improved security.
Earlier, bandits abducted worshippers from the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area.
The attackers initially demanded ₦500 million in ransom, later reducing it to ₦200 million, giving the victims’ families a two-day ultimatum and warning of unspecified “consequences” if the demand was not met.
A total of 14 individuals were taken, including the presiding pastor, known as Orlando, and six children from his household. Among the victims were a three-week-old baby and a four-month-old infant. The church raid occurred during a service on November 30, 2025, sparking widespread fear in the area.
These incidents underscore the growing insecurity in Kogi State, particularly in Yagba East and West, where communities continue to grapple with repeated kidnappings and attacks.