Adesanya-Davies Condemns Kwara Church Vigil Attack, Demands Urgent Action Against Terrorism
Former presidential candidate and peace advocate, Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, has condemned the deadly attack on worshippers during a church night vigil in Kwara State, describing the incident as “barbaric, satanic, and an affront against God and humanity.”
Reacting to reports that terrorists invaded a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye on the outskirts of Ikiran Village in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, Adesanya-Davies expressed deep sorrow over the killing of three worshippers and the abduction of about 15 others during the vigil.
According to reports, heavily armed attackers stormed the prayer gathering, causing panic and bloodshed among worshippers who had gathered for prayers, while security agencies have since launched rescue operations.
Speaking from Port Harcourt, the clergywoman and Secretary of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs lamented the worsening insecurity across the country, particularly repeated attacks on churches and innocent civilians.
“It is heartbreaking that people can no longer worship freely in peace and safety within their own nation. Attacking worshippers during prayers is an evil act against God Himself. This continuous bloodshed in Nigeria must stop,” she stated.
Adesanya-Davies called on the Federal Government, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to take decisive action against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and violent attacks across the country.
She urged authorities to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen local security structures, and ensure the swift rescue of the abducted worshippers.
The peace ambassador also appealed to Christians and the international community to pray for national healing, divine intervention, and restoration of peace in Nigeria.
Quoting from the Bible, she referenced Psalm 34:18, Matthew 5:9, and Psalm 23:4, emphasizing comfort for grieving families and hope for those affected by the tragedy.
She extended condolences to bereaved families, the Christian community in Kwara State, and victims of the attack, praying for the safe release of those kidnapped.
According to her, persistent attacks on worship centres and innocent citizens threaten Nigeria’s unity, stability, and peaceful coexistence, warning that urgent restructuring of the nation’s security strategy has become necessary.
“The time has come for all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe or religion, to unite against terror, violence, kidnapping, and bloodshed. Nigeria must not become a nation where citizens live perpetually in fear,” she added.
The attack has reportedly heightened fear among residents and worshippers in affected communities, with some churches said to have temporarily suspended services over security concerns.
