Gunmen on Tuesday night attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting an unspecified number of worshippers.

The attack reportedly happened around 8:30 pm during a church programme, causing panic in the community and raising fresh concerns over insecurity in the area.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived in large numbers, armed with weapons, and stormed the church located on the outskirts of the town.

The assailants were said to have shot the pastor dead before whisking several worshippers into a nearby forest.

One resident, who spoke anonymously for security reasons, said the exact number of abducted persons had not yet been confirmed.

“The invaders were many. They killed the pastor and took away some worshippers. We cannot say the number yet. The community is in a panic mode for now,” the source said.

Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Ekiti State Police Command said it had launched a rescue operation aimed at securing the release of the abducted worshippers and arresting those responsible.

Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a full-scale investigation and a manhunt for the attackers.

He said security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, vigilantes, and local hunters, had begun coordinated bush combing operations.

“The Police in collaboration with other security agencies have commenced aggressive bush combing operations and a serious manhunt to ensure the rescue of the victims and arrest of the perpetrators,” he said.

He added that the command was working to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victims and prevent a recurrence of such attacks.

The police urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and report any suspicious movement to security agencies.

Religious leaders were also advised to inform security operatives ahead of late-night programmes to ensure proper protection.