The Ekiti State Police Command has launched a sweeping manhunt following a violent attack on a church in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, which left one pastor dead and several worshippers abducted.
Commissioner of Police Michael Falade directed the operation, pledging that security agencies will work relentlessly to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice. The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, and circulated to journalists on Wednesday.
According to police reports, the incident occurred late on April 28, 2026, around 10:30 p.m., when worshippers gathered for an all-night prayer session at Christ Apostolic Church on the outskirts of Eda Oniyo. About five armed assailants stormed the premises, fatally shooting the revivalist pastor, identified simply as Aregbe, before abducting several congregants.
In response, the police have mobilized a joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshal, local vigilantes, and community hunters. The combined forces have begun intensive bush-combing exercises across the area, aimed at tracking down the attackers and securing the release of those taken.
Commissioner Falade assured residents that the Command is taking all necessary measures to stabilize the situation and prevent similar incidents. He appealed for calm, emphasizing that coordinated efforts are underway to restore safety and order.
The statement also reiterated the importance of adhering to state directives on public gatherings. Religious leaders and organizers were reminded that late-night events should not be held without notifying the police, to ensure adequate security arrangements before, during, and after such activities.
The attack has sparked widespread concern in Ekiti State, where communities have faced sporadic threats from armed groups in recent years. Security experts note that the collaboration between formal security agencies and local vigilantes reflects a growing reliance on community-based defense strategies to counter rural banditry.
While investigations continue, the Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to authorities. Police officials stressed that public cooperation is vital to the success of ongoing rescue operations and the eventual prosecution of those responsible.
The killing of Pastor Aregbe and the abduction of worshippers underscore the persistent challenges of insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to sudden attacks. Authorities say the current operation will not only focus on apprehending the culprits but also on reinforcing preventive measures to safeguard places of worship and other public spaces.
As the search intensifies, families of the abducted congregants await news of their loved ones, while the wider community looks to security forces for swift and decisive action.
