Metro
38 kidnapped worshippers regain freedom, reunite with families in Kwara
Thirty-eight worshippers who were kidnapped by armed men in Kwara State have been safely reunited with their families after a coordinated rescue operation by federal and state authorities.
The victims, abducted during a religious event in Eruku, returned to their community on Tuesday around 6:30 p.m., where relieved residents gathered to welcome them back after days in captivity.
According to Prince Dada Sunday, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government, the rescue succeeded through joint efforts involving President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Before their return, the group was formally handed over to Ekiti Local Government Chairman, Honourable Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, during a brief ceremony in Ilorin.
Speaking after the handover, Awelewa praised the swift government response and the collaboration among security agencies that made the operation possible.
He also commended the medical teams who provided immediate care for the rescued victims, noting that all 38 individuals were stabilised before being transported home.
Awelewa assured residents that the local government would intensify security measures across its 10 wards. “We will leave no stone unturned in protecting the lives and property of our people,” he said.
The Owa of Eruku expressed gratitude on behalf of the community, describing the return of the abducted worshippers as a moment of profound relief.
He applauded the roles played by President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRasaq, and security operatives, calling the rescue an example of what coordinated action can achieve.
The successful operation has renewed calls for sustained collaboration between security agencies and local authorities as communities across Nigeria continue to grapple with rising incidents of kidnapping.
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