By Blessing Bello, Reporting
KWARA, Nigeria – In the latest bloody assault on a religious gathering, suspected terrorists stormed an overnight church vigil in rural Kwara State, opening fire on worshippers before abducting 15 people and fleeing into nearby forests.
The attack happened at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, a prayer ground near Ikiran village in Ekiti Local Government Area.
Gunmen reportedly invaded the gathering during a midnight vigil, shooting indiscriminately as terrified congregants scattered for safety.
At least three people were confirmed dead.
Pastor Adebayo Abiodun, who alerted security forces, said the attackers caught the church by surprise while prayers were under way.
“They came without warning and unleashed terror,” he told authorities.
Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident, adding that tactical teams, intelligence operatives and local vigilantes have been deployed to track the perpetrators and rescue the kidnapped victims.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the community, with families still searching for missing relatives.
It also reignites urgent questions about Nigeria’s widening security crisis, particularly the repeated targeting of vulnerable rural populations and faith gatherings.
No group has yet claimed responsibility.
