The Ondo State Police Command has advised religious leaders across Muslim, Christian, and traditional faiths to temporarily suspend night worship activities due to growing security concerns in the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, gave the directive on Friday in Akure while briefing journalists on the recent abduction of six members of a Celestial Church in Uso community.
Grassroots Parrot reports that the victims were kidnapped on February 25 during a midnight service held at a church located along the Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area.
Police confirmed that one worshipper has since been rescued, while an informant linked to the incident has been arrested. The kidnappers were reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦100 million for the release of the remaining victims.
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Lawal disclosed that the abducted persons included pregnant women and one physically challenged individual, raising further concern about the circumstances surrounding the gathering.
The police commissioner explained that security agencies can more effectively monitor religious activities conducted during the daytime than those held at night.
He noted that the police were not informed ahead of the midnight service and reiterated the importance of religious organisations notifying security agencies before holding large gatherings.
“We have always advised religious leaders to carry the police along when planning activities so we can assess safety and provide professional guidance,” Lawal said.
He added that a formal directive had been sent to all area commanders urging religious leaders to suspend night worship temporarily until the security situation improves.