Unknown gunmen carried out a violent assault on St. Andrews Anglican Church in the Isiokwe area of Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area, early Sunday morning. The attackers killed two worshippers, including the wife of the parish priest, and caused extensive damage by setting fire to buildings and vehicles.
Witnesses reported that the assailants stormed the church premises around dawn. They opened fire indiscriminately, targeting individuals and property. The priest managed to escape unharmed, but his wife and another person lost their lives in the chaos. Additionally the gunmen razed the priest's residence to the ground, torched several vehicles, and burned motorcycles belonging to church members. Parts of the main church building also sustained fire damage.
Anambra State Police Command swiftly responded to the incident. Officers arrived at the scene to restore order and commence investigations. Joint security teams, including police and other agencies, now patrol the area to prevent further violence and apprehend the perpetrators.
Commissioner of Police Aderemi Adeoye condemned the attack in strong terms. "This barbaric act against a place of worship shocks our conscience," he stated. "We assure the public that we will leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to justice. Residents should remain calm and provide any information that could aid our efforts."
The Lilu community has endured recurrent insecurity since 2021, with authorities attributing some incidents to separatist groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN). However, IPOB has denied involvement in such attacks. This latest event underscores the ongoing challenges to peace in Nigeria's South-east region.
The Anglican Diocese of Ihiala expressed deep sorrow over the loss and called for prayers for the affected families. Church services remain suspended as assessments continue.