Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche, has expressed deep sadness over the deadly attack on Christian worshippers in Eruku, a community in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, left three worshippers dead and led to the abduction of more than 35 others, sparking outrage and grief across the country.
According to reports, terrorists invaded a branch of the Christ Apostolic Church during a worship session, opening fire on congregants and kidnapping dozens of people. The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents targeting religious centres, schools, markets, and communities across Nigeria.
Reacting to the tragedy, Pastor Enenche took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle to express sorrow over the attack and urged Nigerians to rise in prayer for the nation. He described the situation as part of an ongoing battle against darkness, violence, and evil that has plagued the country for years.
“We need God’s power in our nation,” he wrote. “Our nation is facing an age-long system of darkness terror, bloodshed, and evil. Silence is not an option. We must speak, pray, and stand in the gap for our land. My heart has been heavy, but we will not stop until the rule of darkness is overturned.”
Enenche’s message has attracted reactions from Christian leaders, security analysts, and citizens who agree that Nigeria is experiencing a disturbing rise in attacks on places of worship.
The attack in Kwara State highlights the worsening security situation across Nigeria, where banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism have continued to threaten lives and livelihoods. While many incidents occur in the northern part of the country, violence in religious centres has spread to several states in the last few years.
In the past, churches in Kaduna, Niger, Plateau, and Ondo States have been targets of deadly raids, with worshippers either killed or kidnapped. The attack in Eruku shows that these violent groups are expanding their reach and are not afraid to strike even in communities once considered peaceful.
Residents of Eruku have been thrown into mourning as families struggle to understand why their community was attacked. The death of three worshippers has left a deep emotional wound, while families of the abducted are calling on the government and security forces to take urgent action to rescue their loved ones.
Local sources say the kidnappers fled into nearby forests, a pattern common in many northern and central states where kidnappers use forest paths as hideouts. Community leaders are asking for greater security presence in the area to prevent further attacks.
Pastor Enenche’s reaction reflects a growing trend among religious leaders who have begun openly expressing frustration about Nigeria’s security situation. Over the past two years, Christian leaders have repeatedly urged the government to strengthen security around worship centres, especially in rural areas where attacks often go unreported.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other organisations have also warned that continued attacks on churches could plunge communities into deeper fear and division if not urgently addressed.
Enenche, known for speaking out on national issues, highlighted that the country must not become numb to violence. His call for prayer underscores the spiritual approach many religious leaders believe is necessary, even as they appeal for stronger government action.
Tuesday’s attack has added fresh pressure on security agencies already stretched thin by multiple crises across the country. Police, military, and local vigilante groups have often struggled to respond quickly to kidnapping incidents, especially in rural areas with difficult terrain.
Citizens and leaders from several states have consistently asked for improved intelligence gathering, better coordination among security agencies, and more investment in technology to track criminal groups. There are also renewed calls for community policing and state police as possible solutions.
The Kwara State Government has not yet released full details of its response, but residents are hopeful that rescue efforts will begin quickly to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped worshippers.
Pastor Enenche’s message goes beyond mourning; it calls for unity among Nigerians regardless of tribe or religion. He stressed that insecurity affects everyone, and keeping silent only allows violent groups to grow bolder.
“This is not the time for silence,” he wrote. “We must speak, pray, and stand in the gap for our land.”
Many Nigerians agree that both spiritual and practical actions are needed. Citizens have urged the federal government to take stronger steps to protect worship centres, schools, and public spaces, while also improving prosecution of arrested criminals to discourage future attacks.
Despite the sorrow caused by the attack, Pastor Enenche expressed hope that Nigeria will overcome its security challenges. He encouraged Nigerians not to give up, stressing that light will eventually overpower darkness.
For now, Eruku community remains in mourning, and families await news about the fate of the abducted worshippers. The tragedy serves as another painful reminder that Nigeria’s security crisis continues to threaten lives in every corner of the country.
