A New Year Eve attack by approximately 20 to 30 suspected terrorists left the Ipele Divisional Police Station in Owo LGA razed by explosives and gunfire at the eve of New Year, precisely as the locals were preparing for ”cross over prayers” when the attack happened.
Although, no lives were lost, the attack caused widespread pandemonium, forcing residents to flee into the bush and disrupting crossover church services.
The Ondo State Police Command has since deployed tactical units and EOD teams to restore order and launch a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Disturbing viral footage captured the moment the police station was engulfed in flames, with the inferno spreading to consume multiple vehicles parked within the precinct.
The current attack echoes a grim chapter in the state’s history. On June 5, 2022, the world watched in horror as terrorists targeted worshippers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo. This massacre, occurring under Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s watch, remains one of the deadliest assaults in the state’s history, forever altering its security landscape.
The St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church attack was reportedly consumed at least 40 worshippers were killed, with estimates rising as high as 80, and dozens more were injured. The attack shocked Nigeria because Ondo State had been relatively peaceful compared to other regions.
