Tragedy struck Ekati village in Patigi Local Government Area, Kwara State, as bandits brutally killed Reverend James Audu Issa, a pastor of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), despite his community paying a ransom of N5 million in a desperate attempt to secure his release.
The pastor was abducted on August 28, 2025, with initial kidnappers' demands at N100 million, a sum beyond the means of the largely rural community. After intense negotiations and contributions from family, church leaders, and villagers, the ransom was reduced to N5 million and paid, but the bandits cruelly demanded an additional N45 million.
Before any further negotiations could occur, Rev. Issa was killed, leaving the community and the Patigi Emirate devastated. His death highlights the growing wave of kidnappings and violence in Kwara North, where farmers and travelers face increasing danger.
Security sources report ongoing kidnappings, including a police officer abducted recently, further exacerbating insecurity in the region. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with these crimes. The community continues to appeal for increased security measures to protect lives and livelihoods.