Gunmen have attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during a late-night service.
The assault occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Ilejemeje Local Government Area, sending shockwaves through the community and heightening fears over growing insecurity in the region.
According to local sources, the attackers, heavily armed and operating in large numbers, stormed the church situated on the outskirts of the town. The pastor was reportedly shot dead on the spot, while an unspecified number of congregants were forcibly taken into a nearby forest.
Residents said efforts are ongoing to determine the number of those abducted, as families and community members continue to search for missing persons.
A community source, who requested anonymity for security reasons, described the situation as chaotic. “They came in large numbers, killed the pastor and took several people away. The exact number is still unknown. The entire community is in panic,” the source said.
The Nigeria Police Force in Ekiti confirmed the incident on Wednesday and announced the launch of a coordinated rescue operation.
Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has ordered a full investigation and directed security agencies to track down the perpetrators.
He added that the police are working in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local vigilantes, and hunters to comb surrounding forests in a bid to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, advising the public to report any suspicious movements to security agencies. Religious leaders were also encouraged to inform the police ahead of late-night gatherings to enable proper security arrangements.
The attack underscores rising concerns about safety in parts of the state, as communities call for increased protection against criminal activities.
