A deadly attack by gunmen at a prayer ground in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State has resulted in the deaths of three worshippers and the abduction of fifteen others. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday night, May 23, 2026, at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, situated on the outskirts of Ikiran Village in the Ikerin/Ajuba axis of the LGA.

Reports indicate that a large number of armed criminals stormed the community, targeting worshippers and residents before escaping through nearby forest routes. The attack took place around 20:30 hours (8:30 PM) during a night vigil being conducted by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun of Ijo Ajaye Ati Igbala, Ekerin Village. Pastor Abiodun reported the incident to the authorities on May 24, 2026.

SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, Spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, condemning the gruesome attack, killing, and abduction of innocent worshippers. Upon receiving the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer for Ekiti Division immediately mobilized operatives to the scene.

Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi, psc, mnips, has directed a comprehensive tactical and intelligence-driven operation. This mission involves the Police Drone Team, Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel, Intelligence Units, and other operational assets, aiming for a coordinated rescue of the abducted victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators. The Commissioner of Police described the attack as barbaric, callous, and unacceptable, assuring the families of the deceased, the injured, and the abducted that the Command is fully committed to justice.

The Command has further assured residents of Ekiti LGA and the entire State that vigorous efforts are underway, including extensive bush combing, intelligence gathering, and coordinated security operations to track down the assailants. Members of the public are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive by providing credible and timely information to assist the ongoing operations. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses.

While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, it is understood that three jihadi groups currently operate in Kwara State alongside bandits. The Kwara South region, where this incident occurred, is more frequently affected by banditry attacks, contrasting with Kwara North where jihadists or insurgents have established strongholds and are known for taking women and children hostage.