Ekiti church attack: Olawepo-Hashim condemns pastor’s killing, abduction of worshippers

From Nigeria, The Punch reports on the condemnation of a violent attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Ekiti State by former presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim. The incident, which saw the killing of a pastor and the abduction of at least 13 worshippers by suspected bandits, has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the persistent insecurity challenges in Nigeria's rural areas.

Olawepo-Hashim described the attack as deeply disturbing and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. His statement, however, also raised critical questions about the effectiveness and timeliness of security responses. He noted that despite distress calls during the assault, swift intervention seemed lacking, potentially exacerbating the impact of the crime. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among Nigerians about the ability of security agencies to protect citizens, especially in remote communities.

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My thoughts and prayers are with those abducted, and I stand in solidarity with their families at this painful time.

The former candidate stressed the importance of a more proactive, intelligence-driven approach to combating insecurity, asserting that communities should not live in constant fear of criminal elements. He called for intensified efforts to rescue the abducted individuals and bring the perpetrators to justice. The article underscores the urgency for governments at all levels to strengthen local security frameworks and rebuild public confidence, as such attacks continue to heighten fears across various regions of Nigeria, particularly in the South-West and North.

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Our communities cannot continue to live at the mercy of criminal elements. Places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, not theatres of violence.