Two worshippers were killed as gunmen attacked a morning service in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State, south-eastern Nigeria on Sunday 7 December.
One of those killed was the wife of the church minister.
The attackers also set fire to the church building, causing extensive damage, as well as burning the minister’s home and several vehicles.
A spokesman for Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga (pictured) described the attack as a “heinous and abominable act, committed against innocent worshippers” [Image credit: PressExpress Nigeria / Facebook]
Several other worshippers were left injured by the armed assault.
A spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, described the attack as a “heinous and abominable act, committed against innocent worshippers”.
“[It] is not only an assault on the community, but a grave affront to our shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship,” he continued.
“The command extends its deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and to the entire Lilu community and assures the public that the police shall relentlessly hunt down the perpetrators of this crime.”
Anambra is a Christian-majority state in the predominantly Christian south of Nigeria, but there have been instances of Christian leaders being targeted and abducted in the state.
How you can pray
Pray for the church leader grieving after the loss of his wife and the other bereaved family. Ask that they will know the Lord’s comfort and strength at this painful time. Pray that the perpetrators will be brought to justice and repentance as the security forces receive guidance in their task in identifying and locating those responsible.
