A catechist and his pregnant wife are among several people abducted in a series of violent attacks that security sources and local community leaders describe as anti‑Christian targeted violence in parts of Nigeria.
The incidents, which took place in **communities across [State/Region]*, involved armed assailants storming villages and ambushing travellers on local roads. In one reported attack, gunmen reportedly invaded a church compound, seized worshippers, and kidnapped the catechist and his wife, who is believed to be several months pregnant.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers — dressed in military‑style gear and heavily armed — opened fire to intimidate residents before herding a number of people into waiting vehicles and fleeing into nearby bushland.
Local residents have expressed profound fear and outrage, stressing that the victims were civilians engaged in daily routines, including attending church services or travelling for market and family duties. They described the abductions as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against predominantly Christian communities in the region.
Security forces, including police and military units, have been deployed to the affected areas to begin rescue operations and pursue the suspects. A statement from the [State Police Command] confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to locate and secure the release of all kidnapped victims.
Clergy leaders and human‑rights advocates have condemned the attacks, calling on the federal and state governments to guarantee the safety of citizens and to strengthen protections for vulnerable communities, particularly places of worship and surrounding settlements.
The attacks add to a growing catalogue of security challenges facing parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings, banditry, and communal violence have increasingly disrupted social life and instilled fear among local populations.
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