Terrorists Invade Celestial Church in Ondo, Kidnap Worshippers in Early Hours Attack
In a shocking incident that has heightened security tensions, terrorists invaded a Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, located within the Owo local government area of Ondo state, Nigeria. The attack occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, resulting in the abduction of no fewer than five worshippers who were participating in a service at the time.
Details of the Attack
According to reports, the assailants stormed the church at approximately 1 am, taking advantage of the darkness and the ongoing worship session. The gunmen forcefully entered the premises, disrupted the service, and abducted the worshippers before fleeing to an unknown location. The swift and coordinated nature of the attack has left the local community in a state of fear and uncertainty, with many residents expressing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Police Confirmation and Response
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the kidnapping in a message sent to journalists in Akure, the state capital, on Wednesday. The police have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to secure the safe release of the abducted individuals. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing their commitment to tackling such criminal acts and ensuring the safety of citizens.
Broader Security Implications
This attack underscores the persistent challenges of terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria, particularly in regions like Ondo state, which has witnessed similar incidents in the past. The invasion of a place of worship highlights the brazenness of criminal elements and raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures. Community leaders and security experts are calling for enhanced patrols, intelligence gathering, and collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and local residents to prevent future occurrences.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from religious groups and civil society organizations, who are demanding immediate action to address the root causes of insecurity. As the search for the kidnapped worshippers continues, the focus remains on ensuring their safe return and implementing long-term strategies to combat terrorism and protect vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
