A tragic early-morning attack has shaken the St. Andrews Anglican Church in the Isiokwe area of Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, as armed men stormed the premises, killing two people and burning several properties, including the cleric’s residence.
When visited on Monday, the church compound was deserted, with burnt vehicles, damaged structures, and scattered belongings showing the scale of devastation. Among the two victims was the wife of the church priest, whose killing has deeply devastated the community.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded the church just as worshippers were preparing for Sunday service. They opened fire, injuring several people and setting multiple buildings ablaze.
One resident said, “They came heavily armed and started shooting. They burnt the priest’s house, destroyed vehicles, and even set part of the main church building on fire. It was terrible.”
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has condemned the incident and deployed a joint security team to restore calm and track down the perpetrators.
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Ikenga described the attack as “an assault on innocent worshippers and a grave violation of the peace and sanctity of life,” assuring that the command will not relent until those responsible are arrested.
He added that intelligence operations and surveillance have been intensified across Ihiala and neighbouring communities, while urging residents to remain calm and assist security agencies with useful information.
Lilu, a border community between Anambra and Imo states, has endured repeated security threats in recent months, with locals calling for stronger and sustained government intervention.
