Gunmen suspected to be terrorists have attacked a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda Oniyo, headquarters of Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, during an evening church programme on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
The attackers stormed the service, described as a revival, crusade, or night vigil, and opened fire on worshippers. The presiding cleric, identified as Pastor Aregbe, was shot dead at the scene, while several congregants were abducted and others sustained injuries.
Eyewitnesses said the attack occurred between approximately 6:45 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., triggering panic across the community as gunfire forced residents to flee.
The exact number of abducted victims remains unclear as families continue to account for missing persons, with elderly individuals and children believed to be among those taken.
The Ekiti State Police Command has confirmed the incident. Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has ordered an immediate investigation and deployed tactical teams.
Security operatives, including the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Rangers, local vigilantes, and hunters, have launched coordinated bush-combing operations in surrounding forests to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
No official figures have been released regarding the number of abducted persons or any ransom demands.
