In a disturbing incident, at least nine worshippers were abducted by armed men from St. John's Catholic Church in Utonkon, Benue State, early Sunday morning.
The victims were partaking in a 30-day prayer meeting when the assailants struck around 2 a.m.
Residents said the attackers entered the church compound, forced the victims into vehicles, and drove off into nearby bushland.
Community leaders and local officials confirmed the attack, stating that women and youths were among those taken.
Officials noted that prior advice to work with security teams for night gatherings wasn't heeded, making the abduction easier.
Security forces, including police, have been deployed to search for the victims and apprehend the attackers
