Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of Word Assembly Ministries, has disclosed that he, his wife, and children have been forced to abandon their home and live in hiding due to a security threat linked to bandits. The cleric revealed that he has been unable to return to his residence or ministry camp in Idofian, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, after security operatives warned of a possible attack on the facility. This has left him feeling homeless.
The crisis began on May 31 when police officers arrived at the camp in the early hours and directed residents to evacuate over intelligence of an impending bandit attack. Over 100 people living within the facility, including students, patients, and nurses, were forced to flee, leaving behind a community that housed an orphanage, schools, a hospital, an old people’s home, and a rehabilitation centre. The sudden evacuation has disrupted the lives of many.
Although Rev. Omolehin was not at the camp when the evacuation took place, the attackers later arrived but found the facility deserted. The cleric has since been moving between locations with his family as authorities have yet to confirm that the area is safe enough for residents to return. This has created uncertainty and fear for the future.
Rev. Omolehin also alleged that days after the incident in Kwara, his hometown in Kogi State was attacked, resulting in the death of some residents. He stated that three days after the attack on his camp, his village in Kogi State was also attacked, and his people were killed. This has added to his concerns about the security situation.
The cleric distinguished the looters who broke into the abandoned facility and stole belongings from the bandits, saying the attackers were targeting people rather than property. He emphasized that the kidnappers did not come to steal refrigerators, fans, or mattresses but came for human beings. This highlights the nature of the threat they face.
Despite the security challenges, Rev. Omolehin said his commitment to his ministry remains unwavering. He disclosed that he was recently restricted from preaching in Baptist churches, stating that Baptists banned him from preaching in Baptist churches just about a month ago. His resolve to continue his ministry despite challenges is notable.
Rev. Omolehin appealed to the Federal and Kwara State governments to strengthen security around the facility, particularly because of the children and vulnerable persons under his care. He questioned what would happen to the children in the orphanage that were entrusted to him by the government. His appeal highlights the need for government intervention.
Key points
- Rev. Omolehin's family is homeless due to bandit threats.
- The cleric's ministry camp was evacuated due to a possible bandit attack.
- Rev. Omolehin has been restricted from preaching in Baptist churches.
