Ekiti PRP Governorship Candidate Condemns Eda Oniyo Church Attack, Demands Urgent Security Action

A governorship candidate of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) in Ekiti State, Praise Ayodele (AOP), has strongly condemned the recent attack on worshippers in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, describing it as “senseless” and a grave threat to public safety.

In a statement made available to the public, Ayodele expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which reportedly led to loss of lives, injuries, and the abduction of several residents during a church gathering.

He described the attack as a tragic reminder of the growing insecurity in communities, noting that the sanctity of places of worship must be protected at all costs.

According to him, “In a place of worship, where citizens gathered in faith and hope, violence was unleashed. Innocent lives were cut short, families shattered, and many abducted. This is not only heartbreaking—it is unacceptable.”

The PRP candidate extended condolences to the family of the slain pastor and sympathized with injured victims as well as families of those still missing. He assured affected residents that their pain is shared by all.

“We mourn the slain pastor whose life was dedicated to service, we grieve with the injured, and we stand in anguish with families still waiting for the return of their loved ones,” he said.

Ayodele, however, stressed that beyond mourning, the situation requires decisive government action, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue abducted victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

He emphasized the need for a proactive and intelligence-driven security approach to prevent future occurrences, noting that reactive measures were no longer sufficient.

“It is no longer enough to react after tragedies occur—we must see proactive, intelligence-driven efforts that prevent such horrors from happening in the first place,” he added.

The governorship hopeful further stated that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, warning that leadership must be held accountable if citizens can no longer live or gather freely without fear.

Addressing residents of Eda Oniyo and the wider Ekiti community, Ayodele urged unity and resilience in the face of adversity, encouraging citizens not to succumb to fear.

“As a governorship candidate, I reaffirm my commitment to prioritizing security, strengthening community-based intelligence, and ensuring that every Ekiti citizen feels safe,” he said.

He concluded by praying for the repose of the deceased, speedy recovery for the injured, and the safe return of those abducted, expressing hope that Ekiti State would overcome the tragedy.