DSS Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Ayetoro Church Attack

The Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended Shafiu Usman, who is alleged to be the mastermind behind the deadly attack on the ECWA Church in Ayetoro, Kogi State, on December 14, 2025, which led to the kidnapping of 20 worshippers. The incident raised significant security concerns across the North Central region of Nigeria.

Following the attack, Usman reportedly fled to Gombe State to evade capture. During interrogation, he confessed to orchestrating the Ayetoro church attack and acknowledged his involvement in several kidnapping operations across Nigeria, particularly in Kwara and Kogi States.

Security sources indicated that Usman collaborated with notorious bandit Ibrahim Dang Battijo, who has been linked to various criminal activities, including cattle rustling and arms supply. The DSS's operation to apprehend Usman was part of its ongoing efforts to combat banditry and terrorism in the region, which has included neutralizing arms trafficking networks and rescuing kidnapping victims.