By DAYO ADESULU
Governor AbdulRazaq Confirms Release of 38 CAC Eruku Worshippers
Thirty-eight abducted worshippers of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have regained their freedom after days of intense security operations and high-level government intervention.
The victims, who were seized during a violent attack on November 18, were freed on Sunday, November 23, 2025, drawing relief across the state and reopening conversations around security, religious attacks, and government responsiveness. The freed group includes men, women, and young congregants who were attending an evening worship service when armed terrorists stormed the church.
The key phrase “Kwara church abducted worshippers regain freedom” reflects the central development that has dominated public attention since the attack.
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Tinubu’s Direct Intervention Credited for Breakthrough
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed the release in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye. According to him, the rescue was achieved through the “hands-on” involvement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who reportedly halted a planned foreign trip to address the multiple security breaches in Kwara and Kebbi States.
“The abductees were freed today, November 23,” the Governor declared, describing the release as a direct result of the President’s intervention. He emphasized that Tinubu ordered increased tactical deployments to the region, underlining what he called a renewed commitment to citizen protection.
The statement noted that the President postponed his participation in the G20 meeting in South Africa to focus on Nigeria’s domestic security challenges, including the Kwara attack that left several worshippers dead, including the church pastor.
The governor extended appreciation to the National Security Adviser’s office, the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA). According to him, four tactical police teams were deployed specifically on presidential directive to strengthen operations in the state.
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State, Religious Leaders, and Community Members Welcome Development
Governor AbdulRazaq also thanked religious bodies, community leaders, and residents who showed solidarity during the traumatic episode. He acknowledged the intensity of public concern since the mass abduction and expressed relief that the victims were returned alive.
Families of the freed worshippers, who had endured days of anxiety, also celebrated the development, although community members remain shaken by the brutality of the attack.
Meanwhile, security presence around the church reportedly increased significantly, with patrol vans and armed officers stationed at strategic positions to prevent further incidents.
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Trauma Still Fresh as Church Resumes Service
Earlier on Sunday, worship resumed at CAC Eruku for the first time since the deadly attack. A viral video from the service captured the preacher assuring worshippers of divine justice, declaring that those who died “perished at the feet of Jesus” and would be avenged.
“As Christians, you must not fear death,” the preacher said, urging the congregation to remain steadfast despite the tragedy. He added that those killed “died a righteous death” and that God’s judgment would surely fall upon the attackers.
The emotional service highlighted the community’s grief, resilience, and resolve in the wake of the assault.
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Details of the November 18 Attack
Reports show that ten armed men invaded the CAC church during an evening worship session on November 18. The attackers shot at worshippers, killing multiple people, including the presiding pastor, before abducting 38 members of the congregation.
The incident drew national and international attention, adding to ongoing debates regarding religious violence in Nigeria. Although advocacy groups abroad have repeatedly argued that Christians face targeted attacks, Nigerian officials maintain that terrorism affects citizens across religious communities.
This debate intensified recently when former U.S. President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for alleged religious freedom violations — a move Nigeria rejected.
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A Community Still Healing
The successful rescue of the abducted members marks the end of a dark chapter for the Eruku community, yet residents say the emotional and psychological scars remain. Many are calling for improved surveillance, better intelligence sharing, and stronger federal presence in rural religious communities.
As investigations continue, Nigerians await details on the condition of the freed victims and whether any suspects were arrested during the rescue operation.
For now, the Kwara church abducted worshippers regain freedom, but the call for long-term security reforms grows even louder.
Where are the terrorists you rescued the 38 worshippers from. Did you let them go or arrested? Is it not possible for you to display the terrorists photo. How many did you kpai
or arrested.
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