Fear has spread in Ekiti State after gunmen attacked a church during a night vigil, leaving a pastor dead and several worshippers missing, the inciden occurred late at night.
According to the police, the attack happened around 10:30pm on Tuesday in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti.
Members of the Christ Apostolic Church were gathered for a vigil when the assailants struck.
Moreover, preliminary findings revealed that about five armed men stormed the prayer ground. The pastor was fatally shot, while several worshippers were taken away by the attackers.
The police spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, confirmed that coordinated security operations have been launched. These efforts are aimed at tracking down the suspects and securing the safe return of the victims.
Furthermore, multiple security agencies have been deployed to the area. These include the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, vigilantes, and local hunters.
“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,” the statement reads.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to remain calm despite the tension in the area. Authorities say steps are already being taken to prevent a repeat of such attacks.
“The commissioner of Police calls for calm as necessary steps are currently being taken to salvage the situation and forestall recurrence,” the statement added.
In addition, members of the public have been advised to stay alert and report any 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,” Abutu said.
An emergency contact number, 08062335577, has also been provided for quick response to distress calls.
