Mirian Gom 
KWARA, Nigeria – Armed attackers have invaded a prayer ground in Kwara State, killing three worshippers and abducting 15 others during a night vigil in Ekiti Local Government Area.
The attack occurred on Saturday night at Ori-Oke Ajaiye on the outskirts of Ikiran village while worshippers gathered for prayers.
The Kwara State Police Command confirms the assault in a statement issued by police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.
Police say the attackers stormed the prayer ground at about 8:30 p.m., opened fire sporadically and fled with several worshippers to an unknown destination.
The incident was reportedly first raised by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun.
Commissioner of Police Ojo Adekimi has ordered a large-scale tactical and intelligence-led rescue operation involving police drones, mobile police personnel and intelligence units.
“The attack is barbaric, callous and unacceptable,” the police commissioner says.
Security operatives have intensified bush combing and surveillance operations across affected communities in search of the abducted victims.
Residents are urged to remain calm and provide useful information that could support rescue efforts.
The attack adds to growing security concerns in parts of north-central Nigeria where armed groups continue to target rural communities, travellers and worship centres.
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