The Nigeria Police have uncovered credible intelligence indicating an imminent terrorist attack targeting churches in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, prompting an urgent security alert and a call for heightened vigilance among residents.
PM News reports that a confidential memo, dated May 20, 2025, and signed by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Kanwai James, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Isanlu, was addressed to the local chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
The document warned church leaders to be on high alert and temporarily suspend night services in response to the threat.
According to the memo, criminal elements operating within Yagba East and West LGAs have finalized plans to launch a deadly assault on churches “any moment from now.”
“In view of that, you are hereby informed to intensify efforts in disseminating the information to all churches in Yagba East to be vigilant and security conscious in order to avert their nefarious activities,” the police wrote.
The statement urged churches to activate internal security protocols and deploy members of the Boys Brigade and other security units during services. It also recommended the suspension of all-night programmes until further notice.
The memo noted that law enforcement agencies—including the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilantes, and local hunters—are coordinating efforts with the traditional council and other stakeholders to boost security patrols, especially during worship hours.
Repeated attempts to reach CSP Kanwai for further comments were unsuccessful, as his phone remained switched off.
This alert follows a wave of security breaches in the Okun region of Kogi West, where kidnappings have surged. Among the victims are a 90-year-old first-class traditional ruler and a 76-year-old retired army major, who are reportedly still held by kidnappers.
