Gunmen attack Ekiti church, kill pastor, abduct worshippers

Gunmen have launched a deadly assault on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, leaving a pastor dead and several worshippers kidnapped during a night vigil.

The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the development on Wednesday, noting that the attackers specifically targeted the gathering as members were praying at a location on the outskirts of the community.

Police spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, disclosed that the incident happened around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

According to him, “preliminary investigations indicate that about five armed men stormed the prayer ground, fatally shot the pastor and whisked away some members of the congregation.”

Abutu explained that security agencies have initiated a joint operation to pursue the assailants and rescue those taken.

“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,” he said.

He further revealed that the Commissioner of Police has appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring them that steps are being taken to restore order and prevent future attacks.

“The commissioner of Police calls for calm as necessary steps are currently being taken to salvage the situation and forestall recurrence,” Abutu said.

The police spokesperson urged residents to stay vigilant and support security efforts by reporting suspicious movements.

“Members of the public are charged to be security conscious, vigilant and promptly report any suspicious person or group of persons found within their environments to the police and other security agencies for necessary proactive actions,” he said.

Abutu also advised religious leaders to adhere strictly to state guidelines requiring prior notice to security agencies before organising overnight programmes.

He encouraged anyone with helpful information to reach out to the police via the emergency line 08062335577 for swift action.