The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has urged all religious leaders in the state to suspend night services due to rising security threats. The warning comes after the recent abduction of six members of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Owo Local Government Area.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, gave the advisory on Friday while addressing newsmen in Akure. He said the decision is aimed at protecting worshippers and making it easier for security operatives to monitor religious activities.
The incident occurred on February 25, during a midnight service at the Uso branch of the Celestial Church. Six members were kidnapped, including pregnant women and a physically challenged person. One of the victims was rescued, and the police have also arrested an informant linked to the abduction.
Lawal disclosed that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N100 million for the release of the victims. He emphasized that, so far, no official communication regarding ransom payment has been received by the police.
“The victims were vulnerable individuals, including pregnant women. One was physically challenged. These kinds of activities are risky at night, and it is easier for us to provide security during daytime worship,” the commissioner said.
The police chief urged all religious organisations, including Christian churches, Islamic centres, and traditional worship groups, to temporarily suspend night worship. He explained that informing security agencies ahead of special programs allows for proper monitoring and protection of congregants.
“Religious leaders should always carry us along if they plan any special activity. We can then give expert advice on whether it is safe for their congregation. Unfortunately, in this recent case, nobody informed us about any activity taking place,” Lawal said.
He added a cautionary note to congregants regarding pregnant women. “I do not know when a church became a maternity home or hospital. If someone is pregnant, the best place should be a hospital or maternity home,” he said.
The abduction highlights growing concerns about insecurity in Ondo State. Kidnapping for ransom has become a worrying trend, not only in remote communities but also along major highways and urban centres.
The Police Commissioner reiterated that the temporary suspension is a preventive measure to reduce risk and safeguard lives. “We have sent a signal to all area commanders advising religious leaders—Muslim, Christian, and traditional worshippers—to suspend night worship for now because of the security challenges,” he said.
Following the abduction, the police successfully rescued one of the six victims and apprehended a person believed to be an informant. Investigations are ongoing to locate the remaining victims and arrest all the perpetrators.
Lawal appealed to the public to provide information that could assist in tracking down the kidnappers. He urged religious institutions to adopt safety measures, such as informing the police before hosting events, using security personnel, and limiting gatherings at night.
Residents of Uso and surrounding communities expressed shock over the abduction. Local leaders called for increased security presence along highways and neighbourhoods where religious activities are conducted late at night.
Many worshippers said the advisory by the police is understandable but expressed concern about its impact on religious practices, especially during important spiritual events that traditionally occur at night.
Kidnapping for ransom has been a major security challenge in Nigeria over the last decade, affecting both rural and urban communities. Religious centres, including churches and mosques, have increasingly been targeted, prompting law enforcement agencies to issue warnings and preventive guidelines.
Law enforcement authorities have called on religious organisations nationwide to implement safety protocols, particularly during night activities. Suggestions include advance notice to security agencies, hiring private security, and ensuring adequate lighting and surveillance.
The Ondo Police Commissioner emphasized that ensuring the safety of worshippers requires cooperation between religious leaders, congregants, and security agencies.
“We appeal to religious leaders to take our advice seriously. We cannot guarantee safety if activities continue at night without proper security arrangements. Our goal is to prevent another tragedy like the Uso abduction,” Lawal stated.
He added that temporary suspension of night services is a precautionary measure and will be reviewed once security improves.
