Kwara vigil attack leaves three worshippers dead and 15 abducted after bandits stormed a prayer ground during a night vigil
Bandits on Saturday night killed three worshippers and abducted 15 others after invading a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, near Ikiran village in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
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The deadly attack occurred at about 8:30 p.m. during a night vigil attended by dozens of worshippers at the remote prayer site on the outskirts of the community.
Residents said the armed attackers stormed the area unexpectedly, firing sporadically and causing panic among worshippers who attempted to flee into nearby bushes.
Witnesses said three persons were shot dead during the assault, while several others were forcefully taken away by the gunmen to an unknown destination.
The latest Kwara vigil attack has thrown surrounding communities into fear, with residents expressing concern over the increasing wave of insecurity affecting rural settlements and isolated worship centres.
Local sources disclosed that some worshippers sustained injuries while escaping from the scene during the chaotic attack.
Security operatives were reportedly deployed to the area shortly after the incident, while efforts intensified to track the abductors and rescue the victims.
Community leaders described the attack as devastating and called for stronger security presence across vulnerable communities in the state.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the safety of religious gatherings held in remote locations, especially night vigils often attended by large crowds.
Authorities were yet to release the identities of the deceased worshippers and abducted victims as of the time of filing this report.
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Residents, however, appealed to security agencies to act swiftly and prevent further attacks in the area.
Victory Emmanuel is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
