Tragedy at Celestial Church of Christ in Idiroko: Prophet Yomi Adetula Assassinated

In a shocking and tragic incident, Prophet Yomi Adetula, a 54-year-old cleric of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Eagle Parish, Idiroko, Ogun State, was brutally murdered during a Sunday morning service on January 19, 2025. The attack has sent shockwaves through the Ipokia Local Government Area and the larger Ogun State community.

The attack occurred around 10:30 AM when three armed gunmen stormed the church. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants, wielding a double-barreled gun and an axe, targeted Prophet Yomi Adetula directly. They shot him multiple times before mutilating his head with the axe to ensure his death. The attackers fled the scene, heading towards the border area, leaving the congregation in chaos and mourning.

Gruesome Aftermath and Immediate Response

Prophet Yomi Adetula’s body was discovered lying face-up in a pool of blood, with his white celestial garment drenched and stained. The tragic scene left members of the church and local residents traumatized. The Ogun State Police Command has since launched an intensive investigation into the incident, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The prophet’s remains were promptly moved to the General Hospital Morgue in Ilaro, while security forces combed the area for leads. Although no arrests have been made, the police are focusing on identifying and apprehending the killers. Community leaders and residents have also been urged to provide any information that could aid in the investigation.

Potential Motive: A Conflict with Smuggling Cartels

Preliminary findings suggest the attack may be linked to Prophet Yomi Adetula’s reported conflicts with local smuggling syndicates operating along the border. Idiroko, a border community, has long been a hub for smuggling activities, making it a challenging environment for those who oppose such operations.

Sources revealed that Prophet Yomi Adetula faced intense pressure from these groups, which allegedly led to the closure of his church in December 2024 and his temporary relocation to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The brazen attack on Sunday has reignited concerns about the influence of criminal syndicates in the area and their willingness to silence perceived threats.

Rising Insecurity in Ogun State: A Broader Concern

The killing of Prophet Yomi Adetula highlights the escalating insecurity in Ogun State, which has faced a surge in violent crimes over the years. From highway robberies to bank heists and community raids, the state’s strategic location as a gateway between Lagos and other parts of Nigeria has made it a target for criminal activities.

Highways such as the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the Sagamu-Benin-Ore Expressway have become notorious for armed robbery attacks. In addition, daring bank robberies in towns like Ijebu-Ode have left many residents feeling unsafe. Community raids, often carried out during power outages, further exacerbate the situation. These crimes are often linked to cultist groups, which use robberies to fund their operations.

Police Assurances and the Need for Community Vigilance

In the wake of this tragic incident, the Ogun State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to restoring order and apprehending those responsible. Enhanced patrols, border surveillance, and community engagements have been prioritized to address the rising tide of insecurity.

Local leaders and residents have also been called upon to strengthen neighborhood watch groups and report suspicious activities. The murder of Prophet Yomi Adetula serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat crime in Ogun State and protect vulnerable communities from similar tragedies.

This brutal act underscores the critical need for peace and security in Nigeria’s border regions. As investigations continue, justice for Prophet Yomi Adetula remains a top priority for authorities and a rallying cry for the community.