In a chilling revelation, fresh details have emerged on how armed men executed Sunday’s deadly attack on a church in Kwara State, using tree tops as cover for hours before launching their assault. The incident, which occurred in Oko community of Oke-Ero Local Government Area, left at least three worshippers dead and several others abducted.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants reportedly arrived in the area long before the service began and climbed into tall trees surrounding the church. Hidden by thick branches, they monitored the congregation in silence, waiting for the most vulnerable moment to strike.
Residents said the attackers descended suddenly midway into the service, firing indiscriminately as worshippers scrambled for safety. Some gunmen reportedly remained on the tree tops, shooting at those attempting to flee the building. The surprise attack created chaos, with families trapped inside and others running into nearby bushes.
Local leaders confirmed that about 35 worshippers were taken away by the gunmen, adding that the community had faced multiple threats in recent weeks. Those who survived described the operation as highly coordinated, noting that the attackers seemed familiar with the terrain and had likely surveyed the area days earlier.
Security operatives later arrived at the scene, but the gunmen had already retreated into the forest. The Kwara State Government has condemned the attack and ordered heightened security across affected localities, while calling for calm as search and rescue efforts intensify.
The community remains tense as families await news of their missing loved ones.
