February 27, (THEWILL) — The Ondo State Police Command has urged religious leaders, including Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, to suspend night worship services due to growing security concerns in the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, made the call on Friday in Akure while briefing journalists on the recent abduction of six members of a Celestial Church in Uso.
THEWILL had reported that the victims were kidnapped on February 25, during a midnight service at the church along the Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area.
Lawal disclosed that all the victims were pregnant women, with one being physically challenged, and that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦100 million.
The police boss emphasised the importance of coordination between religious institutions and security agencies, pointing out that daytime activities are easier to monitor and secure.
“On the issue of ransom, nobody has come forward officially. We have always advised religious leaders to involve us in their plans so we can give expert guidance on safety for their congregation. In this recent case, nobody informed us of the activity taking place. I do not know when a church became a maternity home or hospital. If someone is pregnant, the best place is a hospital or maternity home”, he said.
Lawal further disclosed that area commanders have been instructed to advise religious leaders to suspend night worship until the security situation improves, as the state continues to face threats from kidnappers.
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