The Ondo State Police Command has debunked reports circulating on social media claiming that a church was attacked in Ipele community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, clarifying that the target of the incident was the Ipele Divisional Police Headquarters.
The clarification was contained in an official statement issued with reference number AZ:5280/ONS/PPRO/VOL.2/3 by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips.
According to the command, the attack occurred at about 9:41 p.m. on December 31, 2025, when a group of 20 to 30 armed men stormed the station, firing assault rifles and detonating dynamite, before setting the building ablaze.
The incident led to the destruction of the station and several exhibits, although no life was lost as of the time of the report.
The police explained that a joint patrol team comprising the Police, Military, Civil Defence, and other security actors was mobilised to the scene, but the attackers had fled before their arrival.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the incident, describing it as “a tragic and reprehensible attack on security infrastructure,” and urged residents to remain calm, assuring that the situation is under control.
He further ordered the deployment of Tactical Teams, EOD-CBRN units, and Police Mobile Force operatives to the area, while a coordinated manhunt for the suspects is underway.
The Command reiterated that no religious centre was attacked, and urged members of the public to disregard misleading reports.
Further details are expected to be communicated in due course.
