The incident, Anambra State Police Command spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga has confirmed an attack that struck St. Andrews Anglican Church in the Lilu community of Ihiala LGA, Anambra State, as heavily armed assailants stormed the premises early Sunday. The gunmen opened fire while worshippers prepared for service, killing the priest’s wife and another individual, injuring several others, and setting multiple buildings and vehicles on fire, including the priest’s residence and parts of the main church building.
stated that Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu strongly condemned the “heinous and abominable” assault. He emphasized that the attack was a grave violation of the community’s peace and an affront to fundamental values of life and worship.
Ikenga noted that the police have intensified intelligence-led operations and deployed a joint security team to the affected area. Surveillance efforts have been strengthened as operatives follow available leads to track down the perpetrators and ensure they face justice.
The police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information. The Lilu community, located on the Anambra–Imo border, has faced persistent insecurity from armed groups for months, heightening local fear and tension amid ongoing efforts to restore peace.
