Gunmen attacked a branch of Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshipers during a vigil service.
Police Confirm Incident
The Ekiti State police spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, confirmed the incident and stated that a manhunt has been launched to arrest the perpetrators. According to him, about five armed men stormed the church around 10:30 pm while worshippers were holding a service, shot the pastor dead, and abducted some members of the church.
Joint Security Operation Underway
Abutu said a joint security operation consisting of the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local vigilantes, and hunters is already on a mission to rescue the abductees. He stated, “The Police in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, the Agro Marshal, the Vigilantes and the local hunters have commenced an aggressive bush combing operations and a serious manhunt on the perpetrators in order to ensure the rescue of the victims and the arrest and prosecution of the culprits.”
Call for Calm and Vigilance
The police commissioner called for calm, assuring that necessary steps are being taken to salvage the situation and prevent recurrence. He urged members of the public to be security conscious, vigilant, and promptly report any suspicious persons or groups to the police and other security agencies for proactive action.
Compliance with State Directive
The spokesperson also urged religious organizations to comply with the state government’s directive to inform security agents about worship activities that might extend late into the night.
