Thirty-eight worshippers abducted by armed men in Kwara State have been reunited with their families following a coordinated rescue operation executed by federal and state authorities.
The victims, who were seized during a religious gathering in Eruku, were welcomed back to their hometown on Tuesday around 6:30 p.m., where large, emotional crowds gathered to receive them after their harrowing experience in captivity.
A statement released by Prince Dada Sunday, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government, explained that the rescue effort was made possible through the combined intervention of President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, and the Office of the National Security Adviser. Before being brought home, the rescued individuals were formally handed over to Ekiti Local Government Chairman, Honourable Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, during a brief handover ceremony held in Ilorin.
Speaking after receiving the victims, Awelewa commended how swiftly the authorities acted and praised the seamless collaboration between security agencies, which he described as central to the successful rescue. He also acknowledged the medical teams for providing prompt care and ensuring all 38 victims were stabilised before being transported back to their community.
Awelewa further assured residents that the local government would strengthen security across its 10 wards, stressing that protecting lives and safeguarding property remain a top priority. He stated that every necessary measure would be taken to prevent future threats.
The Owa of Eruku expressed appreciation on behalf of the community, calling the safe return of the abducted worshippers a deeply relieving moment. He praised the efforts of President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRasaq, and all security operatives involved, describing the rescue as a powerful demonstration of what effective coordination can accomplish.
The operation has reignited discussions about the need for consistent collaboration between security agencies and grassroots authorities as communities continue to face increasing incidents of kidnapping across Nigeria.
What you should know
The 38 worshippers kidnapped in Eruku, Kwara State, have been rescued and reunited with their families after a combined intervention involving President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRasaq, and the National Security Adviser.
The victims were first handed over to local authorities in Ilorin before returning home, where medical teams had ensured their well-being. Ekiti Local Government Chairman Honourable Awelewa pledged stronger security efforts across all wards, while community leaders expressed gratitude for the coordinated rescue.
The incident has renewed calls for sustained cooperation between security operatives and local authorities amid rising kidnapping cases nationwide.
