The Ekiti State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of worshippers who were abducted during a deadly attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) prayer ground in Eda-Oniyo, Ekiti State, by security operatives.
The victims were kidnapped on April 28 when armed assailants invaded the church during a night vigil, killing the presiding pastor and abducting several members of the congregation.
Confirming the development, the police said the victims were rescued through coordinated security operations involving relevant security agencies. Authorities, however, did not immediately disclose the exact circumstances surrounding the rescue or whether any arrests were made during the operation.
The attack had sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the security of places of worship and rural communities in the state.
According to eyewitness accounts, about five heavily armed men stormed the church’s prayer ground in the middle of the night while worshippers were engaged in a vigil. The gunmen reportedly opened fire, fatally shooting the pastor before forcibly taking away several congregants into the surrounding forest.
The incident threw the community into mourning and prompted an intensive search by security agencies, who launched operations to locate the abducted worshippers and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Following the rescue, the police assured residents that efforts were ongoing to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.
The police also commended the security personnel involved in the operation, describing the successful rescue as a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration among security agencies in tackling violent crimes.
Although the rescued victims have regained their freedom, authorities have yet to provide details about their medical condition or whether they sustained injuries while in captivity. They are expected to receive appropriate medical attention and counselling following the traumatic experience.
The attack on the Christ Apostolic Church prayer ground is one of several incidents in recent years highlighting the growing threat of kidnapping and armed violence targeting religious gatherings and rural communities across parts of Nigeria.
Security experts have continued to advocate stronger intelligence gathering, improved surveillance, and closer cooperation between local communities and law enforcement agencies to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Ekiti State Government and security agencies have repeatedly assured residents of their commitment to strengthening security across the state through enhanced patrols, intelligence-led operations, and rapid response mechanisms aimed at preventing future attacks.
The successful rescue of the abducted worshippers is expected to provide relief to their families and the Eda-Oniyo community, even as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the attack and the killing of the pastor. Authorities have vowed that those responsible will be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
