The Ogun State Police Command has issued a strong warning to churches, mosques and other religious centres to stop holding late night programmes and vigils.
The police authorities are apparently reacting to the attack on a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Abule-Ori, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, where a pastor was killed and seven worshippers were kidnapped last weekend by unknown gunmen.
According to a statement on Friday by the police spokesperson in Ogun State, Omolola Odutola, the state Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, was quoted to have warned religious leaders to always seek police protection before they hold any major religious activity.
The statement reads: “Before major religious activities are held at any centre, podium, location, or area, authorities of the religious body, should approach their nearest Area Commands, Divisional Police Station for adequate security and coverage.
“Churches and mosques should also take take into consideration that early evenings would be more secure for worshippers to hold their services and return home safely on time before sunset.
“We want religious organizations to cooperate with the ongoing contingency plans of the police in Ogun State because strategies to halt the insecurity has been put in place.”
