Presidential hopeful and energy entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has strongly condemned the brutal attack on worshippers at the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, describing the incident as shocking and deeply disturbing.
Details of the Attack
According to reports, about seven armed bandits invaded a revival gathering at the church, opening fire with sophisticated weapons. The attack resulted in the death of the invited pastor and the abduction of no fewer than 13 worshippers. Eyewitnesses stated that the assault lasted approximately 40 minutes, plunging the community into chaos as residents fled for safety, leaving the area largely deserted.
Hashim's Response
Reacting to the tragic event, Hashim expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life and the abduction of innocent worshippers. He extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the slain pastor, the church congregation, and the people of Eda Oniyo and surrounding communities. “My thoughts and prayers are with those abducted, and I stand in solidarity with their families at this painful time,” he said.
Hashim also raised concerns over the reported delay in security response despite distress calls made during the attack, noting that timely intervention could have significantly reduced the scale of the tragedy. While acknowledging the deployment of security personnel currently combing nearby bushes in search of the abductors and victims, he stressed the need for a more proactive, intelligence-driven security architecture.
“Our communities cannot continue to live at the mercy of criminal elements. Places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, not theatres of violence,” he stated.
Call for Action
Hashim called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate release of the abducted victims and ensure the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted. He further urged governments at all levels to strengthen local security frameworks, improve rapid response capabilities, and restore public confidence in the safety of lives and property.
The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in rural communities, with residents of Eda Oniyo still gripped by fear as search operations continue.
