The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the killing of a pastor and the abduction of worshippers during a violent attack on a church programme in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night at a Christ Apostolic Church gathering, when gunmen reportedly stormed the venue around 8:30 p.m., killing a cleric and abducting an unspecified number of worshippers. The attack has heightened tension in the community, with residents expressing fear over worsening insecurity.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described the attack as “deeply disturbing,” condemning it as a direct assault on faith, humanity, and the sanctity of life.
The association said the victims were attacked while peacefully worshipping, stressing that no place of worship should become a target for violence. It also expressed condolences to the family of the slain pastor and solidarity with those affected in Ekiti State.
CAN called for the immediate and safe release of the abducted worshippers, urging security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted. It emphasized that protecting lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of government.
The body also raised concern over similar attacks in other parts of the country, warning that repeated incidents targeting rural communities and religious gatherings were deepening public fear and insecurity.
It further urged increased security presence in vulnerable areas, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger preventive measures to stop further attacks on civilians and places of worship.
