Panic has enveloped Eda-Oniyo community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area following a N1 billion ransom demand by gunmen who abducted no fewer than 15 worshippers during a night vigil and killed a visiting pastor.
The attackers were said to have invaded a prayer gathering at a Christ Apostolic Church on the outskirts of the town, firing sporadically before herding the worshippers into a nearby forest.
Sources in the community disclosed that the kidnappers had since contacted families of the victims, insisting on a N1 billion ransom for their release.
The traditional ruler of the community, Oba Joseph Awolola, confirmed the development, saying the abductors were firm on their demand and had ruled out releasing the victims without payment.
Amid rising tension, monarchs and community leaders have called for urgent steps to address the worsening security situation, including restrictions on late-night religious activities.
Another monarch, Oba Bamidele Ajayi, urged security agencies to adopt more discreet operational strategies, warning that information leaks might be aiding criminal elements.
He also canvassed a statewide directive to limit religious gatherings to before 6:00 p.m., noting that precautionary measures could help avert further attacks.
The Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Pius Alaba, said the incident reinforced earlier warnings to religious organisations to scale down late-night programmes due to increasing insecurity.
He confirmed that at least 15 persons were abducted during the attack.
Meanwhile, the Biodun Oyebanji administration has assured residents that efforts were underway to rescue the victims.
A government delegation led by the Special Adviser on Security, Ebenezer Ogundana, disclosed that joint operations involving the police, the army, and the Amotekun Corps had been intensified to track down the kidnappers.
Also, the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, said patrol teams had earlier been deployed in the area but were unaware of the vigil, a lapse he noted was being reviewed as part of ongoing security adjustments.