The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an investigation into Wednesday’s attack on a church in Ondo State, during which five worshippers were abducted.
Speaking on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said authorities are working to uncover the identities of those responsible and the motive behind the incident.
“Investigation is ongoing on the perpetrator so by the time we conclude our investigation, we will be able to come out with the identity and the motive behind the attack of the church,” Lawal said.
Five Worshippers Abducted
Armed assailants reportedly invaded a branch of the Celestial Church of Christ at about 1:00 a.m. while a service was in progress and abducted five congregants, taking them to an unknown location.
The commissioner revealed that residents have now been cautioned against holding religious gatherings at night, particularly in isolated areas.
“Ondo State Command has advised the good people of Ondo State that for this period, religious activities should be shifted to daytime, not nighttime. That incident at Owo—that church was attacked at about 2 a.m. in the middle of the night—and that’s contrary to the advice we give,” he stated.
Police Urge Precaution
While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to worship, Lawal stressed that the prevailing security situation makes late-night services risky.
“We are not saying people should not worship, of course you have freedom of worship, but then the situation on ground does not encourage us to start carrying out our worship in the middle of the night and more so in an isolated area. If you want to do such a thing, inform the police so I’d be able to provide police for the worshippers,” he added.
Protest Disrupts Traffic
Following the abduction, residents staged a protest demanding swift government intervention. Demonstrators blocked the busy Akure/Owo Expressway, leaving motorists stranded for several hours before normal traffic flow was restored.
What You Should Know
Five worshippers were abducted during a late-night church service in Ondo State after armed men stormed the premises around 1 a.m.
The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation and says it will disclose the attackers’ identities and motive once inquiries are complete. Authorities have advised residents to suspend nighttime religious gatherings due to security concerns and to notify police if such services must hold.
Residents protested the incident, blocking the Akure/Owo Expressway and calling for urgent government action to improve safety.
