Pastor, Worshipper Killed As Gunmen Attack Baptist Church In Katsina

Tragedy struck on Monday night, July 7, 2025, as suspected bandits launched a deadly attack on Bege Baptist Church in Yaribori community, located in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State, killing a pastor and one church member.

The victims have been identified as Reverend Emmanuel Na’allah, the church’s presiding pastor, and Mallam Samaila Gidan Taro, a member of the congregation.

According to conflict journalist Bakatsine, who reported the incident, the attackers stormed the church during what is believed to be a night gathering, opening fire on worshippers and causing panic in the community.

In addition to the killings, a female worshipper was abducted by the assailants and taken to an unknown location. Her identity has not yet been disclosed, and efforts to secure her release are underway.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though the region has witnessed escalating banditry and kidnappings in recent months, with religious centers increasingly becoming targets.

Local authorities are yet to release an official statement as of press time, but residents have called for increased security presence and urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed.

This latest attack adds to the growing concerns about insecurity in rural parts of northern Nigeria, particularly in Katsina, the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“Yesterday night, bandits attacked Bege Baptist Church in Yaribori community, Kafur LGA, Katsina State. They k!lled the church pastor, Rev. Emmanuel Na’allah and a member, Mallam Samaila Gidan Taro & abducted a woman during the attack,” he wrote.