Relieved families in Kwara State have welcomed home 38 members of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) who were abducted during a church service and held for five days.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced their release in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye, on Sunday. The state government credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security agencies for the successful rescue, although specific details of the operation were not disclosed.
“After many days of hard work by security forces and government representatives, HE AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) is excited to announce the freedom of 38 persons abducted during the attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Eruku, Ekiti LGA, Kwara State”, the statement read.
The Governor highlighted the hands-on approach of President Tinubu, noting that he called off his scheduled G20 Summit trip in South Africa to oversee security efforts in Kwara and Kebbi States. The President also directed heightened security deployments to the state, demonstrating his commitment to the safety of Nigerians.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Police, which deployed four tactical teams to Kwara State.
He also thanked security personnel, religious and community leaders, and all Kwarans for their support and prayers throughout the ordeal.
“The safe return of the abductees underscores the importance of coordinated security efforts and the resilience of our communities”, the statement concluded.