Worship turned to chaos in minutes as armed bandits opened fire inside a church, leaving families shattered and a community in fear.
Fear gripped Omogo community in Ifelodun LGA of Kwara State after gunmen stormed a church service, abducting eight worshippers and injuring several others—including a 90-year-old visually impaired woman.
Eyewitness Afariogun Sunday Steven said the attackers appeared suddenly from a nearby burial ground and began shooting as people scrambled to escape. “I raised the alarm and ran. Everyone just fled in different directions,” he recalled.
The attack occurred during service at ECWA Church, the third such incident in the area, raising fresh concerns about worsening insecurity.
The presiding pastor, Omole Sunday Timothy, said members scattered immediately, with some escaping through the back while others hid in rooms. Tragically, his wife was among those kidnapped.
Most of the victims taken were reportedly women who couldn’t run fast enough. Some elderly victims and a child were later abandoned after being beaten for slowing the attackers.
Survivors described being dragged, assaulted, and forced into the bush before some were left behind due to exhaustion.
Residents also faulted the delayed response of security agencies, saying help arrived after the attackers had already escaped.
Local vigilantes and the traditional ruler say they are outgunned and overwhelmed, urging urgent government intervention.
As families wait in anguish, the abducted victims remain in captivity.
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