Catholic Diocese In Ondo Adjusts Easter Vigil To 5pm Amid Fear Of T£rror Att∆cks

Catholic Diocese In Ondo Adjusts Easter Vigil To 5pm Amid Fear Of Terror Attacks

The Diocese emphasised that the adjustment was guided by “pastoral prudence and sensitivity” amid heightened insecurity, while reaffirming the faithful’s commitment to their beliefs.

The Catholic Diocese of Ondo State has announced an adjustment to this year’s Easter Vigil schedule, citing growing security concerns in the country and Ondo State.

In a directive issued from the Office of the Chancellor on March 30, 2026, and addressed “To: All Priests, Religious and lay faithful of Ondo Diocese,” the Church said the decision was taken in response to “the realities of our time particularly the prevailing insecurity in our country and our State.”

The statement, signed by the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Michael O. Eniayeju, conveyed the directive of the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, mandating an earlier start time for the Easter Vigil across all parishes and communities.

According to the statement, “the bishop, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, has directed that the Easter Vigil in all parishes and communities of the diocese this year shall commence at 5:00 p.m. prompt.”

The Diocese emphasised that the adjustment was guided by “pastoral prudence and sensitivity” amid heightened insecurity, while reaffirming the faithful’s commitment to their beliefs.

“We remain steadfast in our Christian faith in the resurrection of our Lord, which the Easter Vigil solemnly celebrates,” the statement noted.

Highlighting the broader implications of the security situation, the Diocese stressed collective responsibility, stating, “Security as it were is everybody’s concern.”

It further urged parishes and worshippers to take proactive measures, adding that “All parishes and communities are enjoined to beef up their security strategies and let us continually pray for peace and protection in our land.”

The message concluded with a call for divine intercession, saying, “May Our Lady Queen of Peace intercede for us always.”

The directive reflects increasing caution among religious institutions in parts of Nigeria, where security challenges have prompted adjustments to public gatherings and worship activities.

In February, SaharaReporters reported that the Nigeria Police Force asked all religious organisations across Ondo State to suspend vigils and night services.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Adebowale Lawal, issued the advisory in Akure while addressing newsmen on the recent abduction of six members of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso.

The victims were kidnapped on Wednesday February 25 during a midnight service at the church located along the Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area of the state.

The commissioner disclosed that the command had taken proactive steps by notifying security formations across the state.

“However, we have sent a signal to all area commanders advising religious leaders — Muslim, Christian and traditional to suspend night worship for now because of the security challenges,” he said.

The advisory affects a wide range of faith-based gatherings, including Islamic night prayers, Christian vigils and traditional nocturnal rites, which are common across communities in the state.

Despite government promises, insecurity has continued unabated in different parts of Nigeria including Ondo State.