Kidnappings: Police advise religious leaders to suspend overnight programmes in Ogun

The Ogun state police command has warned religious leaders to stop organising night programmes for their members over rising incidents of kidnappings and attack on churches.

Recall that last weekend, a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Abule-Ori, Obafemi-Owode Local Government of Ogun State was attacked  and a pastor was killed and seven worshippers kidnapped by some unknown gunmen last weekend.

The seven RCCG members kidnapped during the incident were rescued by operatives of the Ogun So-Safe Corps, who killed one of the gunmen.

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In a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, the police spokesperson in Ogun, Omolola Odutola, quoted the State Commissioner, Abiodun Alamutu, as warning religious leaders to always seek police protection before religious activities are held.

She said, “Before religious activities are held at any centre, podium, location, or area, authorities of the religious body should approach their nearest Area Commands, Divisional Police Station for adequate security and coverage.”

The Police also tasked churches and mosques to take into consideration that early evenings would be more secure for worshippers to hold their services and return home safely on time before sunset.

Alamutu advised religious organizations to cooperate with the ongoing contingency plans of the police in Ogun, saying strategies to halt the trend had been put in place.