Bandits Release Abducted Pastor, Hold Ransom Carrier Hostage in Kaduna

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a dramatic turn of events in Kaduna State, bandits suspected to be kidnappers have released Pastor Samson Ndah Ali, the recently abducted leader of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Mararaba Aboro.

The pastor was freed after a ransom was reportedly delivered; however, the man who carried the ransom, Yusuf Shehu Ambi, has been detained by the kidnappers, who are now demanding additional payments or concessions for his release.

Pastor Ali was abducted from his home early on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, just two weeks after taking up his new position at the church

Pastor Ali was abducted from his home early on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, just two weeks after taking up his new position at the church. Initially, the kidnappers had set a staggering ransom of N100 million for his freedom.

While police authorities in Kaduna have yet to confirm the details surrounding the pastor’s release and Ambi’s detention, a local source has indicated that Ambi, who serves as the financial secretary of ECWA in Mararaba Aboro, was on a mission to deliver the ransom when he was taken captive.

The ongoing crisis highlights the increasing dangers posed by kidnappers in the region, as families and communities grapple with the fear and uncertainty surrounding abductions. The situation continues to unfold, with many calling for urgent action from law enforcement to address the rampant insecurity affecting their lives.