Terrorists have killed Reverend James Audu Issa, a pastor of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), in Kwara State, despite the payment of a N5 million ransom.
Reverend Issa was abducted from his residence in Ekati village, Patigi Local Government Area, on August 28, 2025.
The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N100 million, which was later reduced to N5 million after negotiations.
The family and community members managed to raise the N5 million, which was paid in an attempt to secure his release.
However, after receiving the N5 million, the kidnappers demanded an additional N45 million.
Before any further negotiations could take place, Reverend Issa was killed by the abductors.
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The incident has sent shockwaves through the ECWA community and the broader Patigi Emirate, highlighting the growing insecurity in Kwara North.
Local leaders have condemned the act, calling for increased security measures to protect clergy and communities from the rising wave of kidnappings in the region.
This tragic event underscores the persistent threat posed by armed groups operating in parts of Kwara State and the challenges authorities face in curbing abductions and ransom-related crimes.