The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Champion Zonal Headquarters, located along Federal College of Education (FCE) Road in Kontagora, Niger State, was set ablaze by unidentified arsonists in the early hours of Saturday, August 10, 2024.
The attack occurred around 3:00 am, as confirmed by Assistant Pastor Samson Ogbebor, who received a distress call about the fire. Upon arrival, he found the 20-year-old church building completely destroyed and its properties looted.
This incident is not isolated; the same church faced a similar attack ten years ago when it was also burned down by unknown assailants who had warned against the completion of the building.
Despite these challenges, the church community has shown resilience, rebuilding the structure through self-efforts and continuing their worship activities.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the attack. Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the state Chairman of CAN, described the incident as "barbaric and uncalled for," emphasizing the need for swift government and security intervention to prevent further escalation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
He stated, "There is freedom of worship in Niger State, I am sure by the time the government and security agencies take action, it will go a long way to address any form of tension that may want to escalate beyond control."
Elder John Aboje, another member of the church, expressed determination to continue their worship despite the attack. He appealed to Governor Umaru Bago, the Emir of Kontagora, Alh. Muhammadu Barau Mu’azu II, and all relevant security agencies to treat the incident with the seriousness it deserves. The case has been reported to the Division ‘A’ Police Station in Kontagora for investigation.
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