Governor Charles Soludo
A quiet Sunday morning in Lilu, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, was shattered when armed criminals stormed a church premises, killing one worshipper, injuring several others, and partially burning the church building in a violent attack that has drawn widespread condemnation.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the tragedy in the strongest terms, describing it as a shocking violation of the community’s peace and a direct attack on fundamental freedoms.
“This heinous and abominable act, committed against innocent worshippers, is not only an assault on the community but a grave affront to our shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship,” CP Orutugu said.
The early-morning assault on December 7, 2025, left the church building partially burnt and several properties damaged after the attackers opened fire on the congregation. Residents described the scene as chaotic as victims were evacuated for urgent medical attention.
The Commissioner extended the Command’s condolences to the victims’ families and the entire Lilu community, noting that no society should endure such brutality.
“No community should be subjected to such brutality,” he said. “We will not allow criminals to instill fear or destabilize the peace we are working tirelessly to maintain.” The Command disclosed that intelligence-driven operations and joint security deployments have been intensified in the area as efforts to track the attackers continue.
“Our operatives are following every lead, and no resource will be spared in ensuring that those responsible are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” CP Orutugu added. He called on residents to remain calm and provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
“The Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property across Ihiala and the entire state,” the statement concluded.”
Sources gave the names of the Church as St Andrews Anglican church, Isiokwe in Lilu community of Ihiala LGA of Anambra State. The victim of the attack is said to be the wife of the priest, said to have been brutally murdered by the invaders. They also razed down the priest’s house to ashes, burnt down the church vehicles and other church properties.”
