Relief swept over Ilorin as 38 abducted worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, were received by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Sunday night, days after armed bandits kidnapped them during a church programme. The victims, visibly weary, were taken straight to the Government House Clinic for emergency medical care, with some placed under critical observation.
Survivor Bamidele Emmanuel described the ordeal as deeply traumatic, while CAC Pastor Oluwafemi Ajayi called it the darkest week for the church, expressing gratitude to God and government for their support. Governor AbdulRazaq acknowledged the relief but reminded the public that full celebration awaits the freedom of all captives across Nigeria.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive personal intervention, which he said was instrumental in the rescue. The abduction, which left three worshippers dead, reignited concerns over rampant banditry near Kwara’s borders with Kogi and Niger states. The rescue mission involved coordinated efforts by the DSS, Nigerian Army, Police, NIA, and tactical units.
This incident has intensified calls for stronger border security and urgent measures to combat banditry nationwide.
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