Reverend Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministries in Ilorin, has revealed that bandits threatened to attack his church camp in Idofian village, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. The cleric stated that the threat forced him, his family, and over 100 residents to go into hiding for safety. According to Omolehin, the police ordered an immediate evacuation of the camp on the night of May 30-31, following the threat.
The camp, which serves as a facility for orphaned children, houses a primary school, secondary school, hospital, old people's home, and a rehabilitation centre for mentally challenged women and their children. Omolehin disclosed that he was not present during the evacuation but the bandits eventually arrived at the camp, only to find it deserted. The cleric expressed concern that the camp has remained abandoned since the evacuation, rendering the residents homeless.
Omolehin stated that the security threat has forced him to move from one location to another with his wife and children, leaving him feeling homeless. He added that the facility, which was catering to the needs of the residents, is currently not functioning. The school remains closed, and the hospital is not operational, with patients and nurses having fled for their lives.
The cleric revealed that he and his team have written to the police, the Department of State Services, and the Kwara State Ministry of Social Welfare, seeking assurance that the area is safe for their return. However, he stated that no official response has been received yet. Omolehin expressed worry that over 100 residents of the camp are currently scattered across different locations due to the insecurity.
Omolehin also disclosed that his village in Kogi State was attacked three days after the threat in Kwara, resulting in the loss of lives. He noted that the bandits did not destroy the structures in the camp but thieves began breaking into the camp and carting away belongings after the evacuation. The cleric distinguished between the bandits and the thieves, stating that the former came for human targets, not property.
Despite facing criticism and attacks, including being barred from preaching in Baptist churches, Omolehin stated that he remains committed to his public advocacy. He reflected on Jesus' words that preaching may be resisted, and said the attacks do not affect him. The cleric appealed to the Federal and Kwara State governments to strengthen security around the camp, enabling displaced residents to return.
Omolehin emphasized that some of the orphaned children in his care were referred to the facility by government authorities, and appealed to the government to take necessary steps to ensure their safety. He expressed hope that the government would improve security at the camp, allowing him to return with his family and the people he cares for.
Key points
- Bandits threaten to attack Reverend Omolehin's church camp in Kwara State.
- Over 100 residents forced to flee and are currently scattered across different locations.
- Reverend Omolehin appeals to government to strengthen security around the camp.
