Gunmen who invaded a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda-Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, have demanded ₦1 billion for the release of 15 worshippers abducted during a night vigil.
The attackers reportedly struck CAC No. 2 mid-service, opened fire on congregants, killed a visiting pastor, and whisked away worshippers into nearby forests.
The assault triggered panic across the community, with residents fleeing as news of the attack spread.
The Eleda of Eda-Oniyo, Oba Joseph Awolola, confirmed on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, that the abductors had reached out to community leaders with the ransom demand, insisting on ₦1 billion.
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Local authorities said a family of four, a mother and her three children were among those taken alongside other worshippers.
The Ekiti State Government condemned the incident as “heinous and unacceptable,” saying security agencies had been directed to intensify rescue operations and pursue the attackers.
A security delegation visited the community on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, comprising the Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd.), the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, and the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Alaba.
Joint security teams made up of the police, Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes have since launched coordinated search-and-rescue operations in surrounding forests. The 148 Battalion of the Nigerian Army has also been deployed to reinforce the operation.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the victims and dismantle the armed group behind the attack.