Terror returned to Kaduna State this week as armed bandits killed a pastor of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN), popularly known as HEKAN, and kidnapped more than 20 worshippers during a brutal raid on Farin Dutse community in Kauru Local Government Area.
The slain cleric, identified as Reverend Yahaya Kambasiya, was reportedly shot dead while attempting to return to his community after hiding from the attackers.
In a statement issued Thursday by the President of HEKAN, Reverend Dr. Amos Kiri, the church condemned the attack in “the strongest terms,” describing it as “callous, inhumane, and a deliberate attempt to frustrate the church and its members.”
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when heavily armed gunmen invaded the rural community, firing sporadically and abducting residents, including several church members.
Rev. Kiri said Reverend Kambasiya had initially escaped into a nearby farm during the chaos. However, thinking the gunmen had left, he tried to return home — only to be ambushed and shot from behind.
“He was hiding with a few others in a nearby farm until the gunfire ceased. Sadly, as he returned, he was shot dead instantly,” the church leader said.
The body of the late cleric has been deposited at a hospital morgue while burial arrangements are being discussed with his family.
HEKAN also revealed that its members in Kauru Local Government Area have suffered repeated bandit attacks in recent months. Rev. Kiri noted that four members of the church were abducted in Kakude community on October 19 and remain in captivity.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue those still held by the bandits and bring their killers to justice.
“Families of the kidnapped victims are traumatized and living in fear. We urge the security authorities to go after these criminals and ensure our members’ safe release,” Rev. Kiri appealed.
The HEKAN President also called for prayers and solidarity from Christians across the country, asking God to comfort the bereaved families and heal Nigeria from worsening insecurity.
“We ask all Christians to stand with us in prayer during this painful moment,” he added.
He confirmed that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Kauru Divisional Police Station have been officially notified about the tragedy.
Attempts to reach the Kaduna State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, were unsuccessful as calls and text messages went unanswered as of press time.