- Religious leaders across Ondo State are directed to halt all late-night gatherings, including vigils and Islamic night prayers, due to worsening insecurity.
- The directive follows the abduction of six Celestial Church of Christ members during a midnight service in Owo Local Government Area.
- Lawmakers demand a thorough investigation into the attack and intensified efforts to rescue the victims, for whom a N100 million ransom is reportedly demanded.
The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has instructed all religious organisations, including churches, mosques, and traditional worship groups, to immediately suspend night vigils and nocturnal services.
Eko Hot Blog reports that this directive comes in response to escalating security threats and a recent surge in abductions targeting worshippers.
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The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, issued the advisory on Friday in Akure, following a midnight attack on a Celestial Church of Christ parish in Uso, Owo Local Government Area, which resulted in the kidnapping of six members.
According to police reports, gunmen stormed the church located along the Uso/Owo Expressway in the early hours of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, forcing worshippers into the bush.
Commissioner Lawal noted that the victims included pregnant women and a physically challenged individual, highlighting the increased vulnerability of congregants during midnight programmes.
“We have sent a signal to all area commanders advising religious leaders—Muslim, Christian, and traditional—to suspend night worship for now because of the security challenges,” Lawal stated, emphasizing that daytime activities are easier for security agencies to monitor and protect.
The latest incident has triggered widespread outrage and anxiety across Ondo State, where residents have reported a series of security breaches since the beginning of the year, including a recent attack on a police station in Ipele.
While one of the victims from the Uso attack was rescued and an informant arrested, the kidnappers have reportedly demanded a N100 million ransom for the remaining five hostages.
The Commissioner advised religious leaders to inform the police of any special activities in advance to allow for security assessments and deployment.
