Kwara Abductees of Christ Apostolic Church Yet to Return Home Despite Release From Bandits

Days after their release, the 38 members of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State, who were abducted by bandits on November 18, have not yet been reunited with their families. The worshippers were kidnapped during a special thanksgiving service in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, and were moved to Ilorin by government officials last Sunday.

The attack left three people dead and one injured. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced their release through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, though details of how the victims were freed were not disclosed. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, later clarified that no ransom was paid, emphasizing that the government negotiated directly with the captors.

Despite completing medical examinations sponsored by the state government, the worshippers remain in an undisclosed hotel in Ilorin. Relatives expressed concern over the delay, saying they had expected the abductees to return home immediately after the official announcement. One family member described the prolonged wait as emotionally draining, noting the distress caused by the uncertainty.

Community members dismissed claims that families paid for the release, confirming that security officials informed them the victims were safe and receiving care at the Government House. A senior government official added that the worshippers were still undergoing medical and psychological evaluations, particularly the young and elderly, to address the trauma they experienced during captivity.

Residents of Eruku welcomed the government’s intervention but urged authorities to expedite the return of the worshippers so the community could begin proper healing and reunification with their loved ones.