Panic has gripped the Eda Oniyo community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State after suspected gunmen attacked a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) during a revival programme, killing the presiding pastor and abducting several worshippers.
The attack reportedly occurred on Tuesday evening at about 6:45 p.m. when armed men stormed the church located on the outskirts of the community and opened fire on members of the congregation.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers shot sporadically, causing confusion and forcing worshippers to flee for safety into nearby bushes and surrounding areas.
The pastor in charge of the revival service, identified as Pastor Aregbe, was reportedly shot during the attack and later died from his injuries.
Local sources disclosed that the gunmen abducted an unspecified number of worshippers before escaping through a nearby forest route. Women, children, and elderly church members were said to be among those taken away by the attackers.
Several other worshippers also reportedly sustained injuries during the incident.
Residents of the community described the attack as shocking and terrifying, noting that the church is located close to residential areas.
The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the incident on Wednesday and announced the launch of a joint security operation to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
Police spokesperson, SP Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered an immediate investigation and deployed tactical teams to the area.
According to the police, the rescue operation involves personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local hunters, and vigilante groups.
“We are working with all relevant security agencies and local operatives to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted worshippers and bring those responsible to justice,” Abutu stated.
Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Alaba, also confirmed the incident, describing it as a tragic development for the community.
He disclosed that the remains of the slain pastor had been deposited at a morgue, while efforts were ongoing to determine the exact number of worshippers abducted during the raid.
“This is a painful incident for the people of Eda Oniyo. We are supporting security agencies in every possible way as they continue search-and-rescue operations,” Alaba said.
The attack has heightened fears over rising insecurity in rural communities across Ekiti State, with residents and community leaders calling for stronger security presence around religious centres and remote settlements.