Nigeria: 2 Pastors Kidnapped after Gunmen Storm Church Camp

Two Nigerian pastors remain captive after gunmen stormed a Christian campsite on March 21. Christian Today reports the gunmen kidnapped three pastors, but released Rev. Iliya Anto due to health concerns. 

Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Dziggau and Rev. Yakubu Dzarma remain in captivity. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of 100 million naira ($500,000) for their return. 

The pastors were at the campsite to set up for an Easter church retreat. All three pastors belong to the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (TUCCN).

Rev. Jibrailu Wobiya, who escaped the gunmen with other church members said, "We were all holding a prayer meeting at the prayer camp located along the Kaduna-Abuja Highway in the city of Kaduna… We were working on the camp site in preparation for our forthcoming church conference when the kidnappers invaded the place and began shooting into the air."

The TUCCN, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria have urged the Nigerian government to track down the gunmen and ensure the release of the captives. 

Rev. Musa Asake, national secretary for the Christian Association of Nigeria also asked for prayer for the situation. 

"We kindly request all men and women of goodwill to join faith with us as we lift our eyes in prayer unto the hills of heaven; we have an assurance that our help ultimately comes from God, the maker of heaven and earth, and indeed the Author of life. Our God will not let us down,” he said. 

Publication date: March 30, 2016