From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN), also known as HEKAN, has strongly condemned the recent attack by armed bandits on the Farin Dutse Community in the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The assailants invaded the community and unleashed violence on innocent, unarmed citizens, leading to the death of a clergyman, Reverend Yahaya Kambasaya, and the kidnapping of over 20 individuals, including HEKAN members.
According to Rev. Dauda Gambo, Chairman of the HEKAN Kauru District Church Council, heavily armed bandits and cattle rustlers attacked the community in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025.
This brutal invasion resulted in the death of Reverend Yahaya Kambasaya and the abduction of more than 20 people, many of whom are members of HEKAN, Gambo said.
The HEKAN President, Reverend Dr. Amos Kiri, reported that the clergyman was shot in the back, the bullet penetrated through his chest, causing immediate death.
The body of the deceased has been deposited in a morgue, awaiting the family’s approval for the burial date.
Previously, the HEKAN Church was attacked by bandits on December 4, 2024, which resulted in the abduction of 50 people, including HEKAN members and Pastor Reverend Francis Lawal.
One of the kidnapped victims died in captivity, while several others returned with various degrees of injuries.
The HEKAN Church characterized the bandits’ attack as callous and inhumane, urging security agencies and relevant authorities to pursue the bandits and rescue those who have been kidnapped.
The church also prayed for divine intervention in Nigeria’s security challenges, which have claimed lives and property, instilling fear in many citizens.
