Gunmen stormed a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, within Ilejemeje Local Government Area, on Tuesday night, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during an ongoing church programme.

The attack, which happened around 8:30 pm, has left residents shaken, with many struggling to come to terms with the rising insecurity in what was once considered a peaceful area.

According to sources within the community, the attackers arrived in large numbers, heavily armed, and targeted the church located on the outskirts of the town. In the chaos that followed, the pastor was shot dead, while an unknown number of worshippers were forcefully taken away into a nearby forest.

One resident, who spoke anonymously due to safety concerns, described the fear currently hanging over the community. He explained that efforts are ongoing to identify how many people were taken.

“The attackers were many. They killed the pastor and took some worshippers away. We are still trying to confirm the number of those missing. Right now, the entire community is in panic,” the source said.

Confirming the incident, the Ekiti State Police Command said a full-scale rescue operation has been launched to bring the victims back safely.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, revealed that the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has ordered an immediate investigation and a coordinated manhunt for those responsible.

Security forces, including the police, Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, local vigilantes, and hunters, have begun intensive search operations in surrounding forests to track down the kidnappers and rescue the victims.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that serious efforts are underway to restore safety and prevent further attacks.

The police also called on the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movement within their environment, stressing the importance of community cooperation in tackling insecurity.

In addition, religious leaders were advised to inform security agencies ahead of late-night gatherings, so proper safety measures can be put in place.

For now, a community waits in fear and hope — mourning a life lost, while praying for the safe return of those taken.