Christian Association of Nigeria Condemns Deadly Ekiti Crusade Attack and Abduction of Multiple Worshippers

The Christian Association of Nigeria condemns the deadly Ekiti church attack, calling for the immediate rescue of kidnapped congregants and better rural security.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 5:28 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Politics Nigeria

A Violent Incursion into a Religious Sanctuary

The sanctity of religious assembly in Ekiti State was shattered when gunmen launched a brutal assault on an open air crusade in the Eda Oniyo Ekiti community. During the invasion, a presiding pastor was killed, and an unconfirmed number of worshippers were forcibly taken into captivity by the attackers. Daniel Okoh, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, characterized the incident as an assault on shared humanity and expressed profound mourning for the victims while standing in solidarity with the regional Christian community.

Patterns of Escalating Insecurity in the North Central Region

The Ekiti tragedy is not an isolated event but part of what religious leaders describe as a disturbing and predictable pattern of nationwide instability. Okoh specifically referenced a recent parallel incident in the Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, where gunmen successfully abducted residents, including several members of the clergy and their immediate families. These repeated incursions suggest a deepening security crisis that is increasingly targeting vulnerable groups during communal gatherings and religious services.

Demands for Decisive Executive and Security Action

In response to the Eda Oniyo Ekiti attack, the Christian Association of Nigeria has reminded the government that the protection of life and property remains its most fundamental constitutional responsibility. The association is urging security agencies to operate with transparency and speed to locate the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the hostages. Leaders emphasize that the response must be decisive to prevent the normalization of violence against citizens who are participating in peaceful assembly.