The Nongo u Kristu u i Ser u sha Tar (NKST), also known as the Universal Reformed Christian Church, has confirmed the abduction of one of its resident pastors, Rev. Gbinde, and two members of his congregation by suspected kidnappers in Benue State.
The News Chronicle reports that the victims were reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, after gunmen stormed the pastor’s residence at NKST Church, Andyar, in the Ishan Classis area of the state.
Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday, the church’s General Secretary, Rev. Dr. T. A. Targba, described the attack as tragic and called on Christians and Nigerians to pray fervently for the victims’ safe and unconditional release.
“Our prayers are with Rev. Gbinde, the two church members, their families, and the entire congregation during this painful and uncertain time,” the statement said.
The church also appealed to security agencies, as well as the Benue State and Federal Governments, to launch immediate efforts to rescue the abducted victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Beyond the immediate rescue operation, NKST urged authorities to adopt stronger and more proactive strategies to combat kidnapping and the worsening insecurity across the country, stressing that preventing such attacks should take priority over reacting after they occur.
Reaffirming its faith in God, the church said it remains steadfast in prayer, expressing confidence that Rev. Gbinde, his companions, and all others currently held captive would return home safely.
