A wave of relief has swept across Kwara State following the confirmation that all 38 worshippers abducted last week from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, have regained their freedom. The successful release was announced by the State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Sunday, November 23, 2025.
The worshippers had been held captive by armed bandits since the brutal attack on their church service on Tuesday, November 18, which tragically resulted in the deaths of three members.
Governor AbdulRazaq, in a statement, credited the successful outcome to the “hands-on approach” of President Bola Tinubu. The Governor disclosed that the President personally led efforts to secure the victims’ release, including cancelling a scheduled international trip and directing the immediate deployment of additional security assets to the state.
Governor AbdulRazaq: “After many days of hard work by security forces and government representatives, we are excited to announce the freedom of all 38 persons… The President’s direct initiative and commitment to the safety and well-being of our people made this happen.”
The rescue operation involved intense, coordinated efforts by a combined team of federal and state security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Nigeria Police Force.
Upon their freedom, the abductees were immediately received by the Governor and transferred to a State House Clinic for urgent medical evaluation and attention before being reunited with their anxious families. While expressing immense gratitude for the return of the victims, the Governor reiterated that the fight against banditry remains far from over, pledging that security forces will continue to pursue the perpetrators.
