The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ogun State is mourning the untimely death of Pastor Kayode Oluwakemi, who was tragically killed by kidnappers during a vigil at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Desires of Nations Parish.
While the seven abducted churchgoers were fortunately rescued, the incident has raised serious concerns about the security of worship centers in the state.
In response to this disturbing event, CAN’s General Secretary, Dr Stephen Adeyemi, has called upon the government to take immediate action to address the rising insecurity and ensure the safety of worshippers in their sanctuaries.
On the night of the incident, a group of armed kidnappers invaded the premises of the church located in Abule-Ori, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
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The attackers opened fire, resulting in the tragic death of Pastor Kayode Oluwakemi, who was fatally shot in the chest. Furthermore, seven churchgoers were abducted by the kidnappers.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Dr Stephen Adeyemi, the General Secretary of CAN, voiced his concerns regarding the safety of worshippers gathering to worship God.
He questioned whether it had become a sin for believers to gather in their sanctuaries, emphasizing that these attacks within the house of God have created fear and insecurity among the faithful.
Dr Adeyemi urged the government to prioritize the issue of insecurity around worship centers and take effective measures to ensure the safety of worshippers.
CAN firmly believes that there is a solution to the prevailing security challenges faced by worship centers. The association is earnestly appealing to the government to address this issue promptly and take decisive action to prevent criminals from infiltrating places of worship.
Dr Adeyemi stressed the importance of the government’s intervention, questioning how these criminals can freely enter the house of God, carry out their operations, and escape without consequence. CAN is resolute in its plea for government assistance to safeguard the lives and sanctity of worshipers.
Fortunately, the combined efforts of the So-Safe Corps and the police led to the successful rescue of the seven abducted churchgoers. The So-Safe Corps, through their Owode-Egba Zonal Command, initiated a special operation in response to a distress call, which resulted in the safe recovery of the victims.
During a gunfire exchange, one of the kidnappers was neutralized, while several others sustained injuries. The prompt action by the security agencies undoubtedly played a crucial role in rescuing the abducted individuals.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident and revealed that Pastor Adesina Oyesegun reported the case to the police.
Following the attack, the police launched an investigation to apprehend the remaining suspects who fled the scene.
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