Oyebanji suspends night vigils after Ekiti attack

ADO-EKITI — Biodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State, has ordered the suspension of night vigil programmes in churches across Eda Oniyo community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area following a deadly attack that left a pastor killed and several worshippers abducted.

The directive came in the wake of the recent invasion of a church in the community by suspected gunmen, which resulted in the death of a cleric and the abduction of about 15 worshippers.

During a sympathy visit to the community on Sunday, the governor assured residents that his administration would not tolerate acts of violence, kidnapping, or criminality, pledging intensified efforts to secure the release of the victims and prevent further attacks.

Represented by his deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, Oyebanji described the incident as tragic but expressed confidence in the government’s capacity to restore safety through coordinated action with security agencies.

He said the temporary suspension of night vigils forms part of immediate security measures aimed at curbing further attacks, urging residents to hold religious activities during the daytime until the situation stabilises.

“This government will not abandon you. We will do everything possible to rescue those abducted and strengthen security in this area,” he said.

The governor also highlighted plans to address cross-border criminal activities, noting that the community’s proximity to neighbouring states makes it vulnerable to infiltration through forest routes and porous borders.

He called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities, warning against internal collaboration with criminal elements, which he said contributes to insecurity.

In his remarks, the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Julius Awolola, described the attack as traumatic and appealed for stronger security presence in the area.

Similarly, the Chairman of Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Rufus Ajayi, disclosed that the community had initiated the construction of a police station near the Eda Oniyo–Obbo Ayegunle border.

He appealed to the state government to support the completion of the project and facilitate the establishment of a military post to reinforce security.

Residents say the latest incident underscores growing concerns over recurring attacks in the area, with calls for urgent and sustained intervention to safeguard lives and property.