Gunmen have attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during a night service.
The incident, which occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, has left the community in fear, with residents raising concerns over growing insecurity in the area.
According to sources, the attackers, who arrived in large numbers and were heavily armed, stormed the church located on the outskirts of the town, shot the cleric, and forcefully took an unspecified number of worshippers into a nearby forest.
A resident, who spoke anonymously due to security concerns, described the situation as chaotic.
“The attackers were many. They killed the pastor and took some worshippers away. We are still trying to confirm how many people were abducted. The entire community is in panic,” the source said.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Sunday Abutu, said the command had launched a coordinated operation to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
He noted that the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a full investigation and an intensive manhunt.
“The police, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local vigilantes, and hunters, have commenced aggressive bush-combing operations to rescue the victims and bring those responsible to justice,” Abutu said.
He assured residents that security agencies were working round the clock to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
“The Commissioner of Police urges residents to remain calm, as necessary steps are being taken to address the situation and prevent a recurrence,” he added.
Abutu also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to security agencies.
In addition, he advised religious leaders to inform the police ahead of organising late-night programmes to enable adequate security arrangements.
