Gunmen have abducted six worshippers at a Celestial Church along the Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, raising fresh concerns about insecurity in the state.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh. According to the police, the attack happened in the early hours of Tuesday, February 25, at about 12:50 a.m., while the victims were holding a night service at the church.
Police said the gunmen stormed the church premises and took the worshippers to an unknown destination. The incident has left residents of the area in fear, especially as it occurred during a religious gathering.
DSP Jimoh said that immediately after receiving the report, security agencies swung into action.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” he said.
He added that one of the kidnapped worshippers had been rescued through the joint efforts of the security teams.
“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued. Additionally, one suspected informant linked to the incident has been arrested and is currently assisting with ongoing investigations,” the police spokesperson stated.
According to him, security operations are still ongoing to ensure the safe return of the remaining five victims and the arrest of all those involved in the attack.
The police urged residents of Owo and surrounding communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could help in the rescue efforts.
The latest attack has renewed fears among residents of Owo Local Government Area, which has experienced security challenges in recent years.
Owo, a major town in Ondo North Senatorial District, is known for its busy expressway linking Ondo and neighbouring states. However, parts of the area have recorded cases of kidnapping and attacks along highways, especially at night.
Religious centres have also not been spared in the past. In June 2022, gunmen attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo during a Sunday service, killing and injuring several worshippers. That incident shocked the nation and led to calls for better security around churches and other public places.
Since then, security presence has been increased in parts of the town, but residents say there is still need for more patrols, especially along major roads and isolated areas.
A resident who spoke to our correspondent said the latest abduction has caused panic among worshippers.
“We are worried because this happened in a church during a night service. People come to pray and feel safe, but now there is fear,” he said.
Another resident called on the government to improve security along the Uso/Owo Expressway, noting that criminals often take advantage of the dark and lonely parts of the road.
The Ondo State Police Command said it is working closely with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups to track down the kidnappers. Security patrols have reportedly been intensified in the area, while search operations are ongoing in nearby forests and communities.
The arrest of a suspected informant is seen as a major step in the investigation. Police believe the suspect may have provided useful information to the attackers before the incident. However, authorities have not released further details about the suspect’s identity.
Security experts have often warned that informants within communities sometimes help criminal groups by giving them information about movements and activities. This makes community cooperation very important in tackling insecurity.
DSP Jimoh assured residents that the command is committed to protecting lives and property.
He urged members of the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or security post.
The Ondo State Government has in the past assured residents of its commitment to fighting crime, especially kidnapping, which has become a major concern in many parts of Nigeria.
Kidnapping for ransom has affected several states in the South-West and other regions. Criminal groups often target travellers, farmers, and sometimes worshippers, believing that families and communities will quickly raise money for their release.
Community leaders in Owo have called for calm and unity as security agencies continue rescue operations. They also advised churches and other religious centres to review their security measures, especially during night services.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining five worshippers still in captivity. Families of the victims are said to be praying and hoping for their safe return.
The police have promised to keep the public informed as the investigation continues. Residents, however, say they are looking forward to lasting solutions that will prevent such incidents and restore full confidence in the safety of their communities.
