A fire has destroyed the Redeemed Christian Church of God (Champion Zonal Headquarters) located on Federal College of Education (FCE) Road in Kontagora, Niger State.
The attack, carried out by unknown individuals in the early hours of Saturday, is reminiscent of a similar incident that occurred a decade ago, when the same church was burned down by unidentified arsonists who had previously issued threats against the completion of the building.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, condemned the attack, labeling it as senseless and unwarranted.
He emphasized the importance of freedom of worship in the state and expressed hope that the government and security agencies would take swift action to prevent further escalation of tensions.
He called for the perpetrators to be identified and brought to justice.
Pastor Samson Ogbebor, an Assistant Pastor at the church, reported that the fire occurred around 3:00 am on Saturday.
Upon receiving a distress call, he arrived at the scene to find the church, which has stood for 20 years, burned down, with properties looted by the attackers.
He recounted that the church had faced similar challenges in the past, including the previous arson attack a decade ago.
Despite repeated attempts to hinder their worship, the congregation had continued using the building, albeit without proper roofing.
An elder of the church, Mr. John Aboje, urged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith despite the incident.
He called on Governor Umaru Bago, the Emir of Kontagora, Alh. Muhammadu Barau Mu’azu II, and relevant security agencies to take the matter seriously and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The incident has been reported to the Division ‘A’ Police Station in Kontagora for further investigation.
