Gunmen stormed Elyon Paradise Ministry in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, during a Friday night vigil, shooting the church’s founder, Apostle Divine Omodia, and kidnapping six members in a chilling attack that has left the community in fear.
The incident, which occurred around 10 p.m. near Delta State Polytechnic, has raised fresh concerns over the security of religious gatherings in the region.
Gunfire, Chaos, and a Pastor Wounded
Pastor Faith Omodia, the wife of the injured cleric, recounted the terrifying moment when the assailants opened fire inside the church auditorium.
“I was lying down with my baby in the church hall when I heard gunshots. Suddenly, bullets started flying inside the auditorium,” she said.
She revealed that her husband, Apostle Omodia, was shot in the lap and lost two fingers during the attack.
The gunmen then rounded up worshippers and forcibly abducted six individuals, including two church security guards.
The kidnapped victims have been identified as:
- Helen Onwuamaeze
- Ariyo Emmanuel
- Chike Okolo
- Blessing Waye
- Two unnamed security personnel
Security Concerns Grow as Police Deny Report
Despite the severity of the attack, the Delta State Police Command has yet to confirm the incident.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Bright Edafe, stated:
“No report has been made at any police station regarding this attack.”
Residents and church members are now calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.