The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Kontagora, Niger State, fell victim to a suspected arson attack on Saturday, marking the second such incident in a decade.
The church, located along the Federal College of Education Road, was reportedly set ablaze by unidentified assailants in the early hours of the morning.
Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, condemned the attack.
Yohanna stated, “This act is barbaric and uncalled for, there is freedom of worship in Niger State. I am confident that if the government and security agencies act promptly, it will help prevent any further escalation of tension.”
Assistant Pastor Samson Ogbebor recounted the distressing event.
He said, “I received a call that our church was on fire. Upon arrival, I found the church, which has stood for 20 years, completely destroyed, with properties looted by the attackers.”
Ogbebor revealed that the church had faced similar challenges in the past. “About 10 years ago, hoodlums burned it down completely, and we managed to rebuild it with our own efforts,” he explained.
He added, “Despite numerous threats and being denied permission to properly roof the building, we continued to use it for worship. But now, it has been destroyed again.”
John Aboje, a church member, expressed determination in the face of adversity.
“We urge Governor Umaru Bago, the Emir of Kontagora, Muhammadu Barau Mu’azu II, and all relevant security agencies to take this incident seriously,” he said.
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He added, “The matter has been reported to the ‘A’ Division Police station in Kontagora, and we hope the perpetrators will be brought to justice.”
Very Rev. Father John Gado, Coordinator of CAN in Kontagora, praised the efforts of Governor Mohammed Bago, the state CAN Chairman, and other stakeholders for their restraint during the recent EndBadGovernance protest.
He encouraged Christians to remain calm, peaceful, and steadfast in their faith, assuring them that the issue would be escalated to the state CAN for further action.
