Pastor and new bride abducted in latest Nigeria attacks

In Nigeria, at least 20 people were abducted in two separate attacks in Kogi and Sokoto states over the weekend. In Kogi state, gunmen stormed a Cherubim and Seraphim Church on Sunday, kidnapping the pastor, his wife, and several worshippers. The night before in Sokoto state, a bride, her bridesmaids, a baby, the baby's mother, and another woman were abducted. Schools and places of worship have been increasingly targeted in the north and central regions. While criminal gangs seeking ransom are often blamed, the government suggests jihadist groups may be responsible. Authorities are working to locate the attackers and victims amidst growing concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities and pressure to improve security.

On November 30, 2025, armed attackers kidnapped 13 women and an infant in an overnight raid in Chacho village, Sokoto State, northeastern Nigeria. The victims include a bride, ten bridesmaids, a baby, and two other women. This incident is the latest in a series of mass kidnappings for ransom that have become common in northern Nigeria, where armed gangs target schools and rural communities. A local resident reported that the village was previously targeted in October, with ransoms paid for the release of those kidnapped. A Nigerian intelligence report indicates a rise in bandit-initiated abductions in Sokoto during November, potentially linked to deals made by neighboring states with bandits.