Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has received the 38 worshippers rescued after last week’s attack on the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state.
The victims, who were brought to the Government House Clinic for medical attention, appeared visibly exhausted after days in captivity. Medical personnel provided water, food, medication, and additional care for those too weak to stand.
One of the rescued victims described their ordeal as “harrowing,” explaining that escaping from the armed bandits had been nearly impossible. A church pastor also expressed gratitude to both the federal and state governments for securing the worshippers’ freedom.
Governor Abdulrazaq, who interacted with some of the victims and assessed others receiving treatment inside the clinic, cautioned that the moment was “not yet for celebration,” noting that many abducted persons in other states were still awaiting rescue. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in facilitating the release.
The Kwara State Government confirmed on Sunday that 38 abducted worshippers had been freed, although the statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, did not disclose how their release was secured.
The attack occurred last Tuesday when gunmen stormed the church during a service, abducting 38 worshippers and killing three people. Community eyewitnesses told Channels Television that the attackers arrived “suddenly and heavily armed,” sending residents fleeing into the surrounding bushes. The abductors initially demanded ₦3 billion in ransom, later reducing it to ₦760 million. The incident sparked protests by angry youths in the area.
In reaction to the increasing wave of attacks, President Tinubu postponed planned trips to South Africa and Angola while awaiting security briefings on the Kebbi schoolgirls’ abduction and the Kwara church attack. He directed security agencies to pursue the perpetrators.
Before news of the victims’ release was announced, the church held its Sunday service, during which leaders clarified the exact number of abducted persons. Church Secretary Michael Agbabiaka said members were encouraged to worship despite fear and trauma as a symbol of faith and resilience.
Delivering his sermon, Presiding Pastor Bamidele Lawrence described the ordeal as a test of faith, assuring the congregation that God had promised the abducted members would return alive, drawing parallels with the biblical experiences of the Israelites.
