The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has advised religious institutions across the state to temporarily suspend night worship services following growing security threats.
The directive affects churches, mosques, and other faith-based gatherings that traditionally hold vigils or late-night prayers. According to the police leadership in the state, the measure is necessary to reduce vulnerability and protect lives amid recent criminal incidents.
The announcement was made by the state’s Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, during a media briefing in Akure. He explained that the decision was prompted by intelligence reports and recent attacks targeting worship centres during late-night services. Law enforcement authorities believe that criminal groups have been exploiting the cover of darkness to carry out kidnappings and other violent acts, making night gatherings particularly risky.
The advisory follows a disturbing incident at a branch of the Celestial Church of Christ located in the Uso area along the Uso–Owo road in Owo Local Government Area. During a midnight service earlier in the week, armed men reportedly stormed the church premises and abducted several worshippers. The attack sent shockwaves through the community and reignited concerns over the safety of public gatherings held at night.
Reports indicate that six individuals were taken during the incident.
Among those abducted were vulnerable members of the congregation, including pregnant women and a person living with a disability. The attackers were said to have contacted families of the victims, demanding a large ransom for their release. Security agencies have since launched operations aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those responsible. One individual believed to have provided useful information to investigators has reportedly been taken into custody as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the criminal network.
The police commissioner emphasized that the directive to halt night services is not intended to infringe on religious freedom. Rather, it is a preventive measure designed to safeguard congregants while security agencies intensify patrols and intelligence operations. He noted that daytime activities are generally easier to monitor because of improved visibility, faster response times, and stronger coordination between security operatives and local communities.
Authorities also encouraged religious leaders to collaborate closely with law enforcement. They were urged to notify police divisions of special programmes, revival meetings, or large gatherings in advance so that adequate security arrangements can be made. The commissioner stressed that proactive communication between faith leaders and security agencies can significantly reduce risks and deter potential attackers.
In addition to advising a pause on night worship, the police reassured residents that broader security strategies are being implemented across the state. These include increased patrols along highways and in rural communities, enhanced intelligence gathering, and coordinated operations with other security outfits. Officials say the objective is to prevent further attacks and restore public confidence.
Community leaders have expressed mixed reactions to the advisory. While many acknowledge the seriousness of the security challenges, some worshippers worry about the impact on long-standing religious traditions that involve overnight prayer sessions.
In many churches and mosques, vigils and night prayers are central to spiritual practice. However, others agree that safety must come first, especially given the recent events.
Security analysts note that religious gatherings can sometimes become soft targets for criminal groups because they are often predictable in timing and location. Night services, in particular, may present additional vulnerabilities due to reduced lighting and limited movement in surrounding areas. The temporary suspension is therefore seen as a pragmatic step aimed at minimizing exposure while longer-term security measures are strengthened.
Residents of the affected communities have also called for sustained action beyond the advisory. Many are urging authorities to address the broader issues contributing to insecurity, including rural banditry and kidnapping syndicates operating along highways. They emphasize that while suspending night services may provide immediate relief, lasting solutions will require continuous security presence and community engagement.
The police have reiterated that the directive is temporary and will be reviewed as the security situation evolves. Faith-based organizations are encouraged to adapt by rescheduling programmes to daylight hours or implementing additional safety precautions where necessary. The state command has pledged to remain in close contact with religious institutions and provide updates as investigations progress.
As efforts continue to secure the safe return of the abducted worshippers, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing communities across the region. For now, authorities are prioritizing caution, hoping that the suspension of night gatherings will reduce risks and prevent further tragedies. The call reflects a broader determination by security agencies to balance constitutional freedoms with the urgent need to protect lives and maintain public order.
