Kwara State breathed a collective sigh of relief on Sunday as all 38 worshippers abducted from Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku were freed after days of intense security operations. The development marks a major victory for both federal and state authorities battling rising banditry across Nigeria’s north-central region.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced the release in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, describing the rescue as the outcome of “many days of hard work” by security agencies deployed to flush out criminal elements around the state’s border corridors.
According to the statement, the successful rescue would not have been possible without the direct intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who personally monitored the security situation and issued urgent deployment directives to federal forces.
President Tinubu’s Hands-On Leadership
The governor revealed that President Tinubu had taken an extraordinary step by suspending his planned trip to the G20 Meeting in South Africa to oversee the rescue operations in Kwara and neighbouring Kebbi.
The President, the statement said, ordered a surge of tactical and intelligence units into the affected communities, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerians across the country.
Among the units deployed were:
Department of State Services (DSS) operatives
Nigerian Army reinforcement teams
Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA) personnel
Four new tactical squads from the Nigeria Police Force, including SWAT and anti-kidnapping operatives
Local vigilante groups working in collaboration with federal forces
Governor AbdulRazaq extended his appreciation to all security bodies involved, noting that the victory reflected the power of unified national response.
Community Awaits Reunion With Freed Worshippers
In Eruku community, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation on Sunday evening.
Michael Agbabiaka, Secretary of CAC Oke Isegun, confirmed that the DSS contacted the church around
“Yes, they called us that the abductees have been freed,” he said. “We are awaiting their arrival. Our people are eager to see them alive and safe.”
Families gathered anxiously, some in tears, some singing praises, while community leaders prepared to receive the returnees.
A National Outcry That Shook Kwara
The attack, which occurred during a Tuesday night service, had plunged the state into mourning. Armed bandits stormed the church, killing three worshippers and abducting 38 others, including women and youths.
The incident sparked national outrage, with many Nigerians expressing worry about the growing insecurity around Kwara’s borders with Kogi and Niger States, areas where criminal gangs have recently expanded their activities.
Intensive Search and Rescue Operation
Security operatives mounted a massive manhunt, combing forests and rough terrains in coordinated waves.
The joint operation—featuring soldiers, intelligence units, Special Tactical Squad officers, DSS trackers, anti-kidnapping teams, and local vigilantes—was described as one of the most aggressive rescue efforts in recent months.
The release of the abductees is now seen as a major morale-booster for security forces and a reassuring sign for residents in affected communities.
A Significant Win in the Fight Against Banditry
As Kwara celebrates the return of the abducted worshippers, stakeholders are calling for sustained security presence in border towns, improved community policing, and stronger intelligence-sharing among neighbouring states.
Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace, praising the courage and professionalism of security operatives who risked their lives to ensure the rescue.
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