The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has appealed to religious organisations across the state to temporarily halt night services following growing security threats.
Speaking in Akure, the State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said the advice became necessary after the recent kidnapping of worshippers during a late-night church programme in Owo Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on February 25 along the Uso/Owo Expressway, where gunmen reportedly abducted six members of a Celestial Church during a midnight gathering. Police confirmed that one of the victims has been rescued and that a suspected informant linked to the crime is in custody. Although there were claims that the attackers demanded ₦100 million, the police said no formal complaint regarding ransom payment had been filed.
Lawal noted that some of the abducted worshippers are pregnant, while another is physically challenged, raising further concern about their safety.
He explained that security agencies are better positioned to supervise and protect public gatherings held during daylight hours. He therefore urged churches, mosques and traditional worship centres to reconsider hosting overnight programmes for the time being.
The police chief also encouraged religious leaders to inform security authorities in advance of any major event or special service to enable proper risk assessment and deployment of personnel.
He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to address security challenges in the state and called for public cooperation to improve safety.
