Ondo: ‎Suspend night worship for now — Police tell religious leaders

The Police Command in Ondo State has admonished religious leaders, consisting of Muslim, Christians, and traditional worshippers, to suspend night worship due to the security challenges in the state.

Mr Adebowale Lawal, Commissioner of Police in the state, gave the advice on Friday in Akure while addressing the newsmen on the recent abduction of six members of a celestial church in Uso.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the victims were kidnapped on Feb.25 during a midnight service at the church located along Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area of the state.

NAN also report that one of the worshipers was rescued and one informant was arrested by the police after the incident.

It was gathered that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N100 million before the victims could be released.

Lawal explained that all the victims were pregnant women and one physically challenged person.

The commissioner said it would be easier for the police to monitor religious activities during the daytime than at night.

“On the issue of ransom, nobody has come forward to speak officially about ransom payments.

“And we have always advised religious leaders, if they want to do anything, they should carry us along so we can give expert advice on whether it is safe for their congregation.

“In the recent case, nobody informed us about any activity taking place there.

“I do not know when a church became a maternity home or hospital. If someone is pregnant, the best place is a hospital or a maternity home.

“However, we sent a signal to all area commanders advising religious leaders—Muslim, Christian, and traditional worshippers—to suspend night worship for now because of the security challenges,”