Gunmen who abducted worshippers during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church parish in Ekiti State have demanded a ₦1 billion ransom for their release.
The incident occurred in Eda Oniyo, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area, where residents remain gripped by fear and uncertainty in the aftermath of the attack.
The assailants reportedly stormed the church during a revival programme at about 7:15 p.m., shooting for over 30 minutes before abducting 15 worshippers and taking them into a nearby forest.
A visiting pastor was killed during the attack, while families of the victims continue to await updates on rescue efforts.
In the wake of the incident, community leaders have called for increased security presence in the area. They also urged the state government to consider suspending evening religious activities and other late-night gatherings as a temporary safety measure.
The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has since visited the community and ordered the deployment of a joint security team, including police officers, military personnel, and other operatives, to conduct coordinated search operations in surrounding forests.
He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe release of the abducted victims.
“We will do everything within our capacity to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive and reunited with their families,” he said.
The traditional ruler of the community, Julius Oladipo Owodola, condemned the attack, describing it as disturbing and unacceptable.
He appealed to both the state and federal governments to strengthen security in the area, which residents say has become increasingly vulnerable to such attacks.
Security operations are ongoing, but authorities have yet to confirm any breakthrough in rescue efforts or negotiations.
