Manny Ita –
Gunmen have reportedly abducted four worshippers during a night vigil service at a church in Ondo State, triggering outrage among residents and sparking protests over what locals describe as worsening insecurity across the state.
The attack occurred late at night while congregants were gathered for prayers, according to community sources, who said the assailants stormed the church premises, fired sporadically to create panic and whisked away the victims to an unknown destination. Witnesses said the operation lasted only a few minutes, leaving other worshippers traumatized.
Residents reported that the attackers arrived on motorcycles and took advantage of the darkness to escape through bush paths before security operatives could respond. “They came suddenly, shooting into the air, and everyone started running,” a witness said. “Before we realized what was happening, four people had been taken away.”
The incident has heightened fears among locals, many of whom say kidnappings and armed attacks have become increasingly frequent in parts of the state. Community members accused authorities of failing to provide adequate protection, especially in rural areas where security presence is limited. “We can no longer sleep with our two eyes closed,” a protester lamented. “Even places of worship are no longer safe.”
Angry youths and residents staged demonstrations in the area following the abduction, blocking major roads and demanding immediate action from the government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims and prevent further attacks. Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans calling for stronger security deployment and community protection measures.
Local leaders appealed for calm while urging law enforcement agencies to intensify search operations. A community elder said, “We are pleading with the authorities to act swiftly. These are innocent worshippers who went to pray and never returned home.”
Security officials in the state confirmed that efforts were underway to rescue the abducted individuals and apprehend the perpetrators, though details of ongoing operations were not disclosed for security reasons. Authorities also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
The abduction underscores persistent security challenges facing several parts of Nigeria, where criminal gangs increasingly target civilians for ransom. Analysts warn that attacks on religious gatherings could further deepen public anxiety and erode trust in safety institutions if decisive measures are not implemented quickly.
