Motorists were stranded for several hours on Wednesday as residents of Uso community in Ondo State blocked the busy Owo–Akure Expressway in protest against the abduction of six worshippers by suspected gunmen.
The demonstrators barricaded the highway, demanding swift intervention by security agencies following the midnight invasion of a Celestial Church located along the Uso/Owo corridor.
The protest caused heavy traffic gridlock and disrupted movement between Owo and Akure.
The situation reportedly became tense when some protesters refused to allow certain vehicles to pass, including one conveying a woman said to be on oxygen support, as well as other essential workers attempting to access their destinations.
Community sources disclosed that the attackers stormed the church during a worship session at about 12:50 a.m. and forcefully whisked away members of the congregation, throwing the area into panic.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said six worshippers were abducted during the attack.
The Command stated that security operatives, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, swiftly mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated rescue operation.
Police authorities further revealed that one of the abducted victims has been rescued, while a suspect linked to the crime has been arrested and is assisting investigators with useful information.
The incident has heightened security concerns along the Owo–Akure corridor, with residents urging authorities to intensify surveillance and strengthen security presence to forestall further attacks.
