38 Eruku worshippers reunite with families

Thirty-eight worshippers kidnapped by armed men in Kwara State have been safely reunited with their families following a coordinated rescue operation led by both federal and state authorities.

The victims, abducted during a religious programme in Eruku, returned to their hometown on Tuesday around 6:30 p.m., where emotional crowds gathered to welcome them back after days of distress and uncertainty.

In a statement released by Prince Dada Sunday, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government, the rescue was attributed to the combined interventions of President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, and the Office of the National Security Adviser. The victims had earlier been handed over to the Ekiti Local Government Chairman, Honourable Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, after a brief formal ceremony in Ilorin.

Speaking after receiving the freed worshippers, Awelewa commended the swift response of the government and the seamless collaboration among security agencies that made the operation successful. He also praised the medical personnel who attended to the victims immediately after their rescue, confirming that all 38 individuals were medically stabilised before they were transported home.

Awelewa further assured residents that the local government would strengthen its security architecture across all 10 wards, stressing that no effort would be spared in safeguarding lives and property. His assurances were echoed by the Owa of Eruku, who spoke on behalf of the community and described the safe return of the abductees as a moment of deep relief and gratitude. He thanked President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRasaq, and the security forces for demonstrating the power of coordinated action.

The successful rescue has reignited conversations about the need for sustained collaboration between security agencies and grassroots authorities as communities across the country continue to battle rising cases of kidnapping.

For many in Eruku, the operation stands as a hopeful reminder that collective efforts can still yield meaningful results in the fight against insecurity.