Thirty-eight members of the Catholic Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have been freed after spending several days in captivity.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed their release in a statement on Sunday evening.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq hailed the development as a significant breakthrough, crediting it in large part to the direct intervention of President Bola Tinubu. He disclosed that the President personally coordinated security efforts and even postponed his scheduled G20 engagement in South Africa to address the security breaches in Kwara and Kebbi states.
According to Ajakaye, security agencies—working closely with federal and state authorities—stepped up operations that culminated in the safe rescue of all 38 abducted worshippers, who were reunited with their families on Sunday, November 23.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed deep gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Police Force, which deployed four additional tactical teams to the state on the President’s directive.
He also commended religious leaders, community stakeholders, and residents of Kwara State for their patience, cooperation, and support during the ordeal.
“The rescue underscores the ongoing partnership between federal and state governments in confronting insecurity and protecting citizens nationwide”, statement said.
