Gunmen attack Ekiti church during revival, pastor killed, worshippers feared kidnapped

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have attacked a church in Eda Oniyo, the headquarters of Ilejemeje Local Government Area in Ekiti State, killing a pastor and reportedly abducting an unconfirmed number of worshippers.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening during a revival programme at a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where congregants had gathered for worship.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the church around 6:45 p.m., opening fire on worshippers and causing panic. The revivalist, identified as Pastor Aregbe, was shot dead, while several other worshippers sustained injuries.

Some congregants reportedly escaped into nearby bushes during the attack, while others were either shot or taken away by the assailants.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Alaba, said several persons were still unaccounted for, adding that the exact number of those abducted had yet to be determined.

According to him, information from the church pastor indicated that while some worshippers fled into safety, others were caught in the attack.

He also confirmed that the body of the slain pastor had been deposited in the morgue.

As of press time, security agencies were yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

The attack comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, particularly incidents targeting rural communities and places of worship.