Unknown Gunmen Broke Into Church, Killed Pastor And Kidnapped 6 Church Members
Gunmen attacked Elyon Paradise Ministry in Ogwashi- Uku, Delta State, during a church vigil on Friday night, injuring the pastor and kidnapping six members of the congregation.
The incident took place around 10 p. m. near Delta State Polytechnic. Apostle Divine Omodia was shot and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The attack has raised concerns about security in places of worship, with residents urging authorities to take action to find the missing victims and hold those responsible accountable.
Pastor Faith Omodia, the pastor’ s wife, described the attack, saying the gunmen fired into 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 stated that her husband was shot in the lap and lost two fingers during the attack.
Unknown Gunmen Broke Into Church, Killed Pastor And Kidnapped 6 Church Members | image 8
The gunmen then gathered the worshippers, led them outside, and kidnapped six people, including two security guards.
The abducted individuals were identified as Helen Onwuamaeze, Ariyo Emmanuel, Chike Okolo, and Blessing Waye, along with the two unnamed guards.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command has yet to confirm the incident.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said, ” No report has been made at any police station regarding this attack. ”
1. Conduct a Security Assessment
A security assessment should also evaluate the church’ s emergency response plan, including procedures for responding to active shooters, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. By identifying potential weaknesses, the church can take proactive steps to address them and create a safer environment for worshipers.
2. Implement Access Control Measures
Implementing access control measures is essential to preventing unauthorized individuals from entering the church. This can include installing security cameras, motion detectors, and electronic door locks.
The church can also implement a system of keys, cards, or codes to control access to sensitive areas, such as the nursery, offices, and storage rooms. By controlling who has access to the church and its facilities, the church can reduce the risk of theft, vandalism, and violence.
3. Develop an Emergency Response Plan
Developing an emergency response plan is critical to ensuring the safety of worshipers in the event of an emergency. This plan should include procedures for responding to a range of scenarios, including active shooters, medical emergencies, fires, and natural disasters.
The plan should also identify the roles and responsibilities of church staff and volunteers, including ushers, greeters, and security personnel. By having a plan in place, the church can respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency.
4. Train Church Staff and Volunteers
Training church staff and volunteers is essential to ensuring that they are equipped to respond to security threats and emergencies. This training should include instruction on topics such as crisis management, first aid, and conflict resolution.
The church should also conduct regular drills and exercises to test its emergency response plan and identify areas for improvement. By providing ongoing training and support, the church can ensure that its staff and volunteers are prepared to handle a range of security scenarios.
