Thirty-eight worshippers abducted by gunmen have safely returned to their hometown of Eruku in Kwara State following a coordinated rescue operation by federal and state authorities.
The abductees, who arrived in Eruku around 6:30 pm on Tuesday, were welcomed with tears, jubilation, and prayers as families and community members gathered to receive them.
Their release was confirmed in a statement by Prince Dada Sunday, Chief Press Secretary to the Ekiti Local Government Council Chairman. According to him, the successful rescue was made possible through the intervention of President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Before returning to Eruku, the worshippers were officially handed over to the Executive Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Area, Hon. Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, in Ilorin by Governor AbdulRazaq.
Prince Sunday described the handover as proof of the relentless commitment of government and security agencies who worked round the clock to ensure the victims’ safe release.
Hon. Awelewa expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, the NSA, and all security agencies involved. He praised the swift government response, which he said played a decisive role in rescuing the worshippers without further harm.
“We appreciate the comprehensive medical care and provisions given to the abductees after their rescue,” he said, reassuring residents of Ekiti LGA that his administration would continue to make security a top priority. He vowed to strengthen surveillance and protection measures across all 10 wards of the LGA.
The Owa of Eruku also thanked authorities for their efforts, noting that the return of the worshippers had brought immense relief and renewed hope to the community. He described the rescue operation as a powerful example of what coordinated action can achieve in safeguarding citizens.
