Tension is rising in Ekiti State following the abduction of 15 worshippers during a church vigil, with authorities now under pressure to respond to a steep N1 billion ransom demand and prevent further attacks on communities.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Eda-Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, where gunmen stormed a Christ Apostolic Church service, abducting worshippers and killing a visiting pastor. Local leaders say the attackers struck during a night vigil, a setting that has increasingly become vulnerable in parts of the country.

Confirming developments on Wednesday, the Eleda of Eda-Oniyo, Oba Joseph Awolola, told a government delegation that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N1 billion for the victims’ release. Among those taken, according to the council chairman, is a family of four, including a mother and her three children, raising concerns about the safety of entire households caught in such attacks.

State authorities say a coordinated security response is now underway. A delegation led by the Special Adviser on Security to the governor, Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd.), alongside the Commissioner of Police and local government officials, visited the affected community to assess the situation and direct operations on the ground.

Officials say multiple security agencies including the police, military, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes have been mobilised to track the perpetrators. The deployment of troops from the 148th Battalion and expanded surveillance operations are part of efforts to contain the situation and prevent further breaches.

The Ekiti State Government has condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable, while assuring residents that every measure is being taken to secure the victims’ release. Authorities say the incident underscores the need for heightened vigilance, especially during large gatherings, as security agencies intensify efforts to safeguard lives and restore confidence in affected communities.