The Ekiti State Government has activated full-scale surveillance operations in the Eda Oniyo axis to track down gunmen who attacked a church in the community.

The assailants reportedly attacked a parish of the Christ Apostolic Church during a vigil service on Tuesday evening, killing the pastor and abducting about 15 worshippers into a nearby forest.

The government condemned the attack, describing it as heinous and unacceptable, while extending condolences to the families of the victims.

It assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, stating that efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted persons and bring the perpetrators to justice.

A high-powered security delegation was deployed to the area for an on-the-spot assessment and to coordinate response efforts.

Security agencies, including the police, Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilante groups, have been mobilised to ensure a coordinated operation.

The government also ordered the deployment of additional military personnel to strengthen the security presence in the affected community.

It said surveillance operations have been intensified to monitor the environment, track the attackers, and prevent further incidents.

Security operatives are currently conducting search and rescue operations aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted victims.

Residents were urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies, especially during late-night activities in communities close to forest areas.

The government reiterated its resolve to apprehend those responsible and ensure they are prosecuted.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress in the state also condemned the attack, describing it as senseless and warning against attempts to politicise the incident.