Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has announced the release of the 38 worshippers abducted from Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday.
Governor AbdulRazaq credited President Bola Tinubu’s direct involvement in securing the release. He said the president personally led efforts to free the abductees.
“The governor is immensely grateful to President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his direct initiative that made this happen,” Ajakaye added.
The statement noted that President Tinubu postponed his G20 trip to South Africa to monitor security operations in Kwara and Kebbi states.
“He also directed increased security deployments in Kwara, demonstrating his firm commitment to citizens’ safety,” the statement read.
The statement also added that Federal and local security forces, including the DSS, Nigerian Army, and police tactical teams, collaborated in the rescue operation.
CAC Oke Isegun Secretary Michael Agbabiaka also confirmed this saying that the DSS had contacted the community around 4 pm to announce the release.
The abduction occurred on Tuesday when armed bandits attacked a church service, killing three worshippers and abducting 38 others.
This incident ranks among the largest mass abductions in Kwara’s recent history, heightening concerns over growing bandit activity near Kogi and Niger borders.
The operation was caried out with the coordination of security agencies including soldiers, DSS operatives, SWAT units, Special Tactical Squads, anti-kidnapping teams, and local vigilantes.
Governor AbdulRazaq thanked all stakeholders who contributed to ensuring the worshippers’ safe return.
The release of the Kwara Church abductees provides relief to families and communities and reinforces the need for continued vigilance against bandit attacks.
