Ekiti church attack: Oyebanji urges vigilance, vows rescue of 16 abducted worshippers

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged residents of border communities to remain vigilant and collaborate with security agencies to prevent the influx of criminals.

Oyebanji made the call following last week’s attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, a border community with Kwara State, where a pastor was killed and about 16 worshippers abducted.

Speaking during a sympathy visit to the community on Sunday, the governor, represented by his deputy, Mrs Monisade Afuye, assured residents that efforts were ongoing to rescue the abducted victims.

He said security agencies had already commenced full-scale surveillance operations in the area to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of the victims.

Oyebanji expressed sadness over the incident and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

“This government will never abandon you. We will work hard to rescue those abducted alive. We feel your pain and understand what you are going through,” he said.

The governor also warned against internal collaboration with criminal elements, noting that such actions were contributing to recurring attacks in the community.

“Internal collusion with criminals is fuelling the invasion of the community. Those involved should desist in the interest of the people and the image of the state,” he added.

He assured that the government would intensify strategies to curb trans-border crimes and strengthen security architecture in vulnerable areas.

Oyebanji further advised residents to suspend night activities, including vigils, and hold religious gatherings during the daytime as a temporary safety measure.

The traditional ruler of the community, the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, described the attack as traumatic and called for a stronger security presence in the area.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ajayi, appealed to the government to expedite the rescue of the abducted victims and support the completion of a police post being constructed at the community’s border.

He also urged the establishment of a military post to reinforce security and prevent further attacks.