Gunmen on Tuesday night attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, Ilejemeje LGA of Ekiti, killing a pastor and kidnapping scores of worshippers.

The police said the attack occurred around 10:30 p.m. During a church programme, the assailants arrived in large numbers, shot the pastor and abducted several worshippers.

Police spokesperson in Ekiti, Sunday Abutu, said in a statement on Wednesday that the command had commenced an investigation into the incident.

“The police in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, the agro marshal, the vigilantes and the local hunters have commenced an aggressive bush combing operations and a serious manhunt for the perpetrators in order to ensure the rescue of the victims and the arrest and prosecution of the culprits,” Mr Abutu stated.

He noted that efforts were ongoing to restore calm and rescue victims, urging religious leaders to notify the police before organising late-night gatherings to enable adequate security arrangements.

“The commissioner of police calls on residents to remain calm as necessary steps are being taken to address the situation. Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to security agencies promptly,” Mr Abutu said.