Gunmen have abducted five worshippers during a night service at a church in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, sparking fresh fears over rising insecurity in the region.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday when armed men reportedly stormed a branch of the Celestial Church of Christ at about 1:00 a.m. while worship was ongoing. The attackers forcibly seized five members of the congregation and whisked them away to an unknown location.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, who said security operatives immediately swung into action following the report.
According to him, police officers, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, were promptly deployed to the area and began coordinated rescue operations aimed at tracking down the abductors and securing the release of the victims.
Jimoh disclosed that one of the kidnapped worshippers has already been rescued, while one suspect connected to the attack has been arrested. He said the suspect has provided useful information that is currently aiding ongoing investigations and operations.
He assured residents that efforts are being intensified to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend all those involved in the crime. The police spokesperson urged members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative, stressing the importance of timely and credible information to support security efforts.
The latest attack has revived painful memories of the deadly 2022 assault on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, where dozens of worshippers lost their lives. Security agencies recently arrested a sixth suspect in connection with that tragic incident, as prosecution continues against five others already in custody.
Ondo State has witnessed a surge in violent crimes in recent months, with kidnappings and armed attacks becoming increasingly frequent across several communities. Residents have repeatedly expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation and have called for stronger protective measures.
Security agencies say they are reinforcing surveillance, intelligence gathering, and tactical deployments across flashpoints to curb the rising wave of criminal activities and restore public confidence.
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