2025 Ekiti Church Attack: Police Arrest 33 Suspected Terrorists

ADOO-EKITI, NIGERIA — Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have apprehended 33 suspects in connection with the deadly 2025 attack on a church in Ekiti State. The arrests follow months of intensive intelligence gathering and a series of coordinated raids across the forest borders between Ekiti and neighboring states.

The breakthrough was confirmed by the Force Public Relations Department, which stated that the suspects were part of a high-profile terror cell responsible for the assault. During the initial attack, several worshippers were killed and scores were injured when gunmen opened fire on the congregation during a midweek service.

Security sources told NaijaChoice News that the suspects were tracked to various hideouts after one of the alleged masterminds was picked up during a botched operation last week. The primary suspect has reportedly provided useful information that led to the discovery of a camp where the gang planned their strikes.

Items recovered during the sting operation include several AK-47 rifles, locally made pistols, charms, and a list of several other targets across the Southwest region. Preliminary investigations suggest the group has also been involved in several cases of high-profile kidnappings and cattle rustling along the major highways.

The State Commissioner of Police, while briefing newsmen on the development, emphasized that the command will not allow Ekiti to become a safe haven for criminal elements. He noted that the 33 suspects are currently undergoing rigorous interrogation to identify their sponsors and other fleeing members of the gang.

The Governor of Ekiti State has reacted to the development, commending the gallantry of the officers involved in the operation. In a statement made available to NaijaChoice News, the Governor assured residents that the state’s security architecture has been fortified to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.

Community leaders in the affected local government area expressed a sense of relief following the news of the arrests. They urged the police to ensure that the suspects are prosecuted to the full extent of the law to serve as a deterrent to others.

Economic activities in the area, which had slowed down due to fear of further attacks, are beginning to pick up as residents gain more confidence in the security presence. The police have also increased patrols in rural communities and forest zones to flush out remaining remnants of the terror group.

The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court as soon as investigations are concluded. Authorities have called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements within their neighborhoods to the nearest security agency.