Residents block Akure-Owo Expressway protesting Ondo Church Kidnappings, urging urgent government action to rescue victims and tackle insecurity

Residents of Ondo State blocked the Akure–Owo Expressway for several hours on Wednesday to protest the kidnapping of five worshippers from the Celestial Church of Christ during a vigil on Tuesday night.

Also read: Ondo Police Arrest Suspected Kidnap Syndicate Members

The assailants reportedly stormed the church around midnight and abducted six worshippers, whisking them into a nearby forest. One victim later escaped, leaving five others in captivity.

The incident sparked outrage among locals, who gathered on the expressway chanting solidarity songs and demanding enhanced security. One protester, identifying himself as Deoye, said the demonstration aimed to highlight the worsening security situation.

“We are here to tell the government that insecurity in Ondo State is increasing. Imagine innocent people worshipping their God being kidnapped inside a church.

This is unacceptable. The government must be more proactive in protecting lives and property,” he said.

Confirming the abduction, the DSP Abayomi Jimoh said the command had launched a coordinated operation with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups to rescue the victims.

The police stated that one worshipper had already been rescued and that a suspected informant linked to the incident was in custody, assisting with investigations.

Security operations remain ongoing to ensure the safe recovery of the remaining victims and the arrest of all perpetrators.

Also read: Ondo Security Agencies Vow to Catch Agamo Monarch Killers

Residents have urged state authorities to act swiftly, warning that repeated attacks on places of worship could escalate public unrest and threaten community safety.