Bandits who abducted worshippers during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church parish in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion for their release.
The attackers reportedly stormed the church during a revival programme at about 7:15 p.m., shooting for over 30 minutes before whisking away 15 worshippers into a nearby forest.
A visiting pastor was also killed during the incident, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Residents say they are still living in fear as families of the abducted await updates, while community leaders have called for stronger security presence and temporary suspension of night gatherings to prevent further attacks.
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Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed a joint security team, including military personnel, for bush-combing operations, assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims safely.
Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, visited the affected community and ordered the immediate deployment of a joint security team comprising police officers, military personnel, and other security operatives for coordinated bush-combing operations.
Falade assured residents that security agencies were working tirelessly to ensure the safe rescue of all abducted victims.