Gunmen Attack Delta Church, Shoot Pastor, Abduct Six Worshippers

Gunmen launched a violent attack on Elyon Paradise Ministry in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, during a vigil on Friday night, leaving the community in shock. The assailants shot the church’s pastor, Apostle Divine Omodia, and abducted six worshippers in the incident, which took place around 10 p.m. near Delta State Polytechnic.

Apostle Omodia sustained gunshot wounds and is currently hospitalised. His wife, Pastor Faith Omodia, described the terrifying experience, stating that gunmen fired indiscriminately into the church auditorium. She recounted that she was lying down with her baby when the gunfire erupted, and her husband was struck in the lap, losing two fingers in the attack.

The attackers forced several worshippers outside and kidnapped six individuals, including two security guards. The victims have been identified as Helen Onwuamaeze, Ariyo Emmanuel, Chike Okolo, and Blessing Waye, while the names of the security guards remain unknown.

The attack has raised serious concerns over security at religious centres, prompting calls for urgent government intervention. Residents are urging law enforcement agencies to take swift action to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible.

However, the Delta State Police Command has yet to confirm the attack. When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe stated that no formal report had been filed at any police station regarding the incident.