Gunmen have abducted at least 20 people, including a pastor and a new bride, in two separate attacks in Nigeria.
Attackers stormed the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in central Kogi state on Sunday, forcing worshippers to flee and taking several congregants, including the pastor and his wife.
In Sokoto state, another raid targeted a bride and her bridesmaids shortly before the wedding ceremony. A baby, the baby's mother, and another woman were also among those kidnapped.
This rise in kidnappings, particularly of schools and places of worship, reflects a growing security crisis in Nigeria. While analysts suggest criminal gangs are primarily behind these abductions for ransom, a presidential spokesperson hinted at jihadist motives.
Kogi state's officials confirmed the attack and are working with local security forces to track down the kidnappers. The worrying trend of abductions has sparked renewed criticism of government efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
With hundreds of schoolchildren still missing from earlier kidnappings, many fear for the safety of their families, leading to pressure on authorities to enhance protective measures for schools and churches.
