Gunmen attack church in Ekiti, kill pastor, abduct worshippers
Gunmen have attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during a night vigil.
The incident was confirmed by the Ekiti State Police Command spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, who disclosed that security operatives have launched a manhunt to track down the attackers.
According to Abutu, the assault occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday while members of the church were gathered for a vigil on the outskirts of the town. Preliminary findings indicate that about five armed men invaded the prayer ground, shot the pastor dead, and abducted an unspecified number of worshippers.
He said a coordinated rescue and security operation is already underway, involving multiple agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local vigilantes, and hunters. The teams have begun intensive bush-combing efforts to locate the victims and apprehend those responsible.
“The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, have commenced aggressive bush-combing operations and a serious manhunt to ensure the rescue of the abducted victims and the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police has urged residents to remain calm, assuring that measures are being taken to contain the situation and prevent a recurrence.
Abutu also advised members of the public to stay alert and report any suspicious individuals or activities to security agencies. He further reminded religious leaders to comply with the state government’s directive mandating prior notification to authorities before organising late-night gatherings.
Residents were encouraged to make use of the emergency contact number, 08062335577, to report incidents promptly.
