The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has announced the death of Reverend Anthony Lamba, one of its pastors who was abducted by bandits in Southern Kaduna earlier this year.
In a statement signed by Rev. Alari Alari, Chairman of ECWA Kasuwan Magani District Church Council (DCC), the church expressed deep sorrow, confirming that Rev. Lamba, kidnapped alongside his wife on July 24, 2025, died while in captivity.
“While his wife was later released after paying a ransom of ₦5 million, the bandits demanded a motorcycle for his own release,” the statement read. “Sadly, while arrangements were being made to deliver the motorcycle, he fell seriously ill and passed away in the camp.”
Rev. Alari noted that a memorial service will be held in Lamba’s hometown, Kallah, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, calling on Christians to keep praying for his family and the Church.
Reverend Lamba was reportedly kidnapped alongside Christiana Anthony and Danlami Zana while working on their farm. His death adds to a growing list of clergymen who have fallen victim to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
In a related tragedy, Reverend James Audu Issa, another ECWA pastor, was killed by terrorists in Kwara State despite the payment of a ₦5 million ransom. The assailants had initially demanded ₦100 million, later reducing it before cruelly demanding an extra ₦45 million after receiving payment — and still taking his life.
These incidents highlight the grim reality faced by Christian communities in Northern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have become a deadly plague, often leaving families devastated and faith communities in mourning.
