•Gbenga Hashim
Former presidential candidate and energy entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has condemned the attack on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) No. 2, Eda Oniyo, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, describing it as “shocking and deeply disturbing.”
Armed men, reportedly about seven in number, stormed a revival programme around 7:30 p.m., opened fire on worshippers, killed an invited pastor, and abducted at least 13 congregants, reports Vanguard.
Eyewitness accounts said the assault lasted for about 40 minutes, during which panic spread through the community, forcing residents to flee for safety and leaving the area deserted.
Reacting to the incident, Hashim expressed sadness over the killing and the abduction, extending condolences to the family of the slain pastor, the church, and the people of Eda Oniyo and neighbouring communities.
“My thoughts and prayers are with those abducted, and I stand in solidarity with their families at this painful time,” he said.
He also expressed concern over reports of delayed security response despite distress calls raised during the attack, noting that a quicker intervention could have reduced the scale of casualties and abductions.
While acknowledging that security operatives have since been deployed to comb surrounding forests in search of the attackers and victims, Hashim called for a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach to national security.
“Our communities cannot continue to live at the mercy of criminal elements. Places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, not theatres of violence,” he said.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims and ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.
Hashim also called on governments at all levels to strengthen local security structures, improve rapid response mechanisms, and restore public confidence in the protection of lives and property.
The attack has heightened tension in the affected community, with residents still in fear as search-and-rescue operations continue.
