Breaking: Gunmen abduct 6 worshippers in Ondo church

Gunmen have abducted six worshippers after invading a church in Ondo State, intensifying fresh concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the southwest region.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at a parish of the Celestial Church of Christ located in Uso, a community within the Owo Local Government Area. The assailants reportedly struck while members were gathered for an early morning prayer session, catching worshippers off guard.

Witness accounts indicate that the gunmen arrived quietly before forcefully taking six congregants away. The attackers fled the scene shortly after the abduction, leaving behind a traumatised congregation and raising alarm among residents of the quiet community.

The identities of the abducted victims had not been officially disclosed at the time of reporting, and it remains unclear whether the attackers have contacted families or church leaders with ransom demands.

Growing pattern of abductions raises alarm

The latest incident adds to a string of kidnappings reported across parts of Ondo in recent weeks, underscoring mounting anxiety over public safety.

Just days before the church attack, suspected kidnappers abducted a couple in Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area, further highlighting the spread of criminal activity beyond highways and into residential and religious spaces.

Residents say the growing frequency of attacks has created fear among communities, with many expressing concern that criminals are becoming increasingly bold by targeting vulnerable gatherings such as prayer meetings.

Churches, once considered safe havens, are now emerging as soft targets due to early morning and late-night services, often held with minimal security presence.

Community members in Uso described the latest incident as shocking, noting that the town has traditionally been peaceful. Some residents called for stronger security patrols and faster intervention by authorities to prevent further attacks.

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Security response and calls for action

Although security agencies have yet to release a detailed official statement, the Nigeria Police Force is expected to launch an investigation and intensify efforts to locate the victims and apprehend those responsible.

Kidnapping has remained a major security challenge in Nigeria, with criminal groups increasingly targeting both urban and rural communities for ransom. In recent years, religious institutions, schools, and residential areas have all experienced similar attacks.

Security analysts say the expanding reach of kidnappers into previously quiet areas suggests the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved local surveillance, and closer collaboration between communities and law enforcement.

Meanwhile, residents and religious leaders are urging authorities to act swiftly to rescue the abducted worshippers and restore confidence in public safety.

For now, families of the victims and members of the church remain in distress, hoping for their safe return as security agencies work to track down the attackers.

The incident serves as another reminder of the fragile security situation facing many communities, even in spaces traditionally regarded as sacred and secure.