Ondo State, Nigeria – A wave of panic hit Uso community in Owo Local Government Area as armed men stormed the Celestial Church of Christ during a midnight vigil on Tuesday, abducting six worshippers.

One victim later escaped, leaving five still in captivity, triggering public outrage and protests.

Residents of the community blocked the Akure-Owo Expressway for several hours on Wednesday, demanding stronger government intervention to tackle the rising insecurity in Ondo State.

Protesters, chanting solidarity messages, highlighted the vulnerability of citizens even within places of worship.

Deoye, one of the protesters, emphasized the urgency of government action, stating, “This is unacceptable. Innocent people were kidnapped while worshipping. The government must be proactive in protecting lives and property.”

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the abduction occurred around 12:50 a.m. Armed operatives, including the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, were immediately deployed to launch a coordinated rescue mission.

Jimoh added that one victim has been rescued, and a suspected informant linked to the kidnappers has been arrested and is assisting police investigations.

Security forces are actively working to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims and to apprehend all suspects involved.

This latest incident underscores growing security challenges in Ondo State, with residents calling on state authorities to implement stronger protection measures and rapid response protocols to prevent similar attacks in the future.

As the rescue operation continues, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies while condemning all forms of violence against civilians.