Six worshippers are kidnapped by gunmen during a midnight service at a celestial church in Ondo State; police launch a rescue effort.

Published by Godday Atuba

February 25, 2026, Uso, Owo LGA, Ondo State Six worshippers were kidnapped during a night service at a Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area, early on Wednesday morning by suspected gunmen (often referred to as unknown gunmen or terrorists in local reports), marking a troubling increase in insecurity in Ondo State.The armed attackers allegedly broke into the church grounds, which were situated along the bustling Owo–Akure Expressway (also known as the Benin–Owo Expressway in certain reports), at approximately 12:50 a.m. on February 25, 2026. Witnesses recounted a terrifying scenario as the gunmen interrupted the prayer session, grabbing six members of the congregation by force, transporting them to an unidentified location, and then fleeing into the night.DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Public Relations Officer for the Ondo State Police Command, promptly verified the occurrence. Jimoh stated in an official statement that the perpetrators transported the victims to an unidentified location. He went on to say that local vigilante groups, police, and members of the Nigerian Army were all sent to the spot right away. Rescue operations are already being coordinated.An update on the rescue operationsOne of the kidnapped worshippers escaped from the kidnappers soon after the incident, according to several reports and local sources. Although the whereabouts of the other five fatalities are still unknown as of the most recent developments, this has given some optimism amidst the worry. The condition of the escaped victim and any leads gathered from them have not yet been made public by the police.Outrage in the Community and New Security ConcernsIn the Uso community and throughout Ondo State, especially in the Owo axis, which has a history of violent attacks on places of worship, the kidnapping has caused widespread terror and rage. The sad June 5, 2022, shooting at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, when gunmen slaughtered over 40 worshipers during a Pentecost Sunday service, is less than four years ago, residents note. A lot of residents are upset over what they see as the government’s insufficient response to stop the region’s frequent kidnappings and attacks.Reactions on social media have been emotional and quick. “Now we would understand how it feels… This is my state, zero response from the Governor or president… nothing nothing abduction is now the new cool in NIGERIA!!!,” a user (@elthegreatest on X, formerly Twitter) wrote in a passionate post showing the suffering caused by the ongoing violence in the area. When unidentified gunmen butchered and killed a large number of people in a Catholic church near my home last year, I saw my people scream and help appear out of nowhere. I was in excruciating pain. Our kids won’t ever forgive us if we don’t wake up.”Calls for immediate government action, improved highway security, and an end to the cycle of impunity have increased in response to the post, which included a graphic photograph of armed people.Ondo State’s Insecurity ContextKidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements operating along major highways and rural towns have been a constant menace to Ondo State, especially the northern senatorial region, which includes Owo and adjacent districts. Unfortunately, churches and places of worship have become easy targets because of their perceived vulnerability and regular gathering times. Though public trust in security procedures is still poor, authorities have previously blamed certain instances on herder-farmer conflicts or general banditry spillover from neighboring states.Government and Police ReactionThe public has been reassured by the Ondo State Police Command that investigations are still underway and that every attempt is being made to rescue the remaining victims and catch the criminals. As of right now, no group has taken credit for the attack.According to reports, Uso residents and community leaders have blocked portions of the Owo–Akure Expressway in protest, calling for increased security and quicker action.Actions You Can TakeRemain alert and notify the local security agency of any suspicious activity.Through community initiatives or approved relief channels, assist impacted families.Offer your prayers for the victims’ safe return and regional harmony.In order to safeguard lives and places of worship, Nigeria’s Southwest urgently needs a more robust security infrastructure. As more information becomes available, Headline Hub will keep an eye on developments and offer updates.Keep yourself informed. Be careful. Spread the word to increase awareness. #CelestialChurchAttack #OndoAbduction #EndInsecurity #NigeriaNews