The former Presidential Candidate, distinguished academic, clergywoman, peace advocate, Kwara Ira princess and Secretary of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA), Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the gruesome killing of worshippers during a church night vigil in Kwara State.
Reacting to reports that terrorists invaded a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye in the outskirts of Ikiran Village, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, killing three worshippers and abducting about fifteen others during a night vigil, Prof. Adesanya-Davies described the attack as “barbaric, satanic, wicked, and an affront against God and humanity.”
According to media reports, the heavily armed assailants stormed the prayer ground during the vigil, causing panic and bloodshed among innocent worshippers who had gathered to seek the face of God in prayer. Security agencies have reportedly launched rescue operations following the tragic incident.
Speaking from Port Harcourt, Prof. Adesanya-Davies lamented the worsening insecurity across Nigeria, particularly the repeated attacks on churches, communities, and innocent civilians.
She stated:
“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.”
The renowned peace ambassador and Peace CONSUL, Secretary General (BOT) of United Nations POLAC further called on the Federal Government, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to rise decisively against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and religiously motivated violence ravaging various parts of the country.
She urged the Nigerian government to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen local security architecture, and ensure swift rescue of the abducted worshippers.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies also appealed to Christians across Nigeria and the international community to pray fervently for divine intervention, national healing, protection, and restoration of peace in Nigeria.
Quoting from the Holy Scriptures, The Amb Bishop Professor said:
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me.” — Psalm 23:4
She further extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Christian community in Kwara State, and all affected victims, praying that God grants comfort to the families of the deceased and speedy release of those
kidnapped.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies warned that persistent attacks on innocent citizens and worship centres threaten Nigeria’s unity, stability, and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that urgent national restructuring of security strategies has become imperative.
“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 tragic attack has triggered widespread fear among residents and worshippers in the affected communities, with reports indicating that some churches have temporarily suspended services due to insecurity concerns.
Signed:
Joy Klinton Wellington
Office of Former Presidential Candidate
Peace Advocate, Clergywoman & Public Affairs Commentator
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Nigeria
