Unknown armed assailants launched a deadly attack on St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing two people and setting multiple properties ablaze, including the priest’s residence and church vehicles.
During a visit to the scene on Monday, our correspondent observed that the church compound had been deserted, with burnt structures, scattered belongings, and signs of devastation across the premises. Among the two victims was the wife of the church priest, whose death has thrown the community into mourning. Portions of the main church building were also destroyed by fire.
Eyewitnesses who spoke to SUNTV Global Channel Online recounted that the attack occurred early Sunday morning as worshippers prepared for service. According to one resident, the assailants arrived heavily armed, opened fire indiscriminately, and set several structures within the church complex on fire.
“They murdered the priest’s wife and another member, injured many others, razed the priest’s house, and burnt church vehicles,” the source said. “This kind of evil act on a holy day in a Christian church is unimaginable, yet it is getting little attention.”
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has deployed a joint security team and intensified intelligence-led operations in the area. He assured residents that the perpetrators would be tracked down and brought to justice.
“No community should endure such brutality,” Ikenga stressed. “We urge residents to remain calm and assist security operatives with useful information.”
Lilu, a border community between Anambra and Imo states, has faced recurring attacks from armed groups for several months, leaving residents on edge as authorities work to restore peace.
