Armed assailants killed three people and abducted 15 others during an attack on worshippers holding a night vigil in Kwara State, the police said Sunday.

The incident took place at about 8:30 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2026, at Ori-Oke Ijaye, near Ekerin Village on the outskirts of Ikiran in Ekiti Local Government Area. The gunmen invaded the prayer ground while a church congregation was holding vigil and opened fire on those present.

According to Kwara State Police spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the attack was reported on May 24 by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun of Ijo Ajaiye Ati Igbala, who led the service. Three worshippers were killed instantly. The attackers fled with 15 others to an undisclosed location.

Commissioner of Police Ojo Adekimi called the assault “barbaric and unacceptable” and ordered a full rescue operation. The response includes tactical units, intelligence teams, Police Mobile Force personnel, and the police drone unit. Ongoing efforts involve bush combing and targeted searches to locate the victims and track the gunmen.

The Command reiterated its commitment to rescuing the abducted worshippers and arresting those responsible. It appealed to residents to stay alert and provide credible tips to aid the operation.