Ogun church attack in Akute-Odo leaves security guard dead; one suspect arrested as police investigate, highlighting rising local security concerns

Residents of Akute-Odo in Ifo Local Government Area were thrown into panic on Monday following a deadly Ogun church attack at Christ Crusaders’ Deliverance Ministries, where the church’s security guard, known locally as Baba Iwo, was brutally murdered.

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Eyewitnesses told PUNCH Metro that the assailants struck inside the church around 1am, hacking Baba Iwo to death on the altar. Videos circulating online show the lifeless guard, dressed in Ankara fabric, with his neck nearly severed.

A resident, Ajoke, explained that Baba Iwo had become suspicious of unusual movements in the church and went inside with his cutlass. When he did not return promptly, another security officer looked inside and found him lying helpless on the altar.

Moses, another local, said the attackers appeared to attempt decapitation but were thwarted by the timely intervention of community youths. One suspect was apprehended while fleeing and handed over to operatives of the Ajuwon Police Division.

Videos show the suspect restrained by residents, with visible bruises and a bloodied face. Dare, one of the residents involved in the arrest, said two people were injured during the struggle. Witnesses claimed the suspect admitted that their group targeted people for decapitation and damaged streetlights while escaping.

The Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Babaseyi Oluseyi, confirmed the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further probe.

He stated that the body had been released to the family in line with Islamic rites, and investigations are ongoing.

“The investigation will reveal the details. Certain aspects must remain discreet until conclusion,” Oluseyi said.

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The attack has heightened fears over security in the area, which witnessed another tragedy less than a week ago. Gospel artiste Matthew Ogundele and three crew members—Itunu Ogundele, Joseph Sanya, and blogger Matthew Awosanya (JoesTV)—were found dead in a music studio in the same community during a birthday praise event.