Thirty-eight church members kidnapped in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have finally returned home to an emotional reception, days after their rescue was first announced by government officials.
The worshippers were abducted on November 18, 2025, during a special thanksgiving service at CAC Oke Isegun, Eruku. The attack left three people dead, while one other sustained gunshot injuries.
In a statement released on Tuesday night, the Chief Press Secretary to the Ekiti Local Government Chairman, Dada Sunday, confirmed that the victims were formally handed over to the Ekiti LGA Chairman, Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, in Ilorin by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
According to the CPS, the handover “marked the conclusion of a coordinated rescue operation involving federal and state security agencies.”
Receiving the freed worshippers, Awelewa expressed profound gratitude to all security stakeholders, saying the intervention was both “swift and decisive.”
He added: “We appreciate the comprehensive medical care and other provisions given to the abductees after their rescue. Our administration will continue to prioritise security across all 10 wards. We will leave no stone unturned in protecting the lives and property of our people through a robust security network.”
The victims arrived in Eruku at about 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday and were welcomed by jubilant relatives and excited residents who lined the streets to receive them.
Also speaking, the Owa of Eruku commended the joint rescue efforts of the security agencies and government authorities.
He said, “Their reunion has brought relief to the community. Since the day of the attack, we have not had rest of mind. We thank President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq and all the security agencies for ensuring their safe return.”.
