The return of 38 worshippers to their families in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, after a harrowing abduction by armed bandits, marks a bittersweet milestone in a tragic saga that stunned Kwara State — and sparked national outrage. What unfolded reveals not just a narrow escape, but a story of community trauma, security challenges and a hard-won rescue that highlights both the bravery and flaws in Nigeria’s fight against kidnappings.
A Night of Terror at Worship
On November 18, 2025, during an evening thanksgiving service at CAC Oke-Isegun in Eruku (Ekiti LGA of Kwara), gunmen attacked the congregation. Eyewitnesses described how the service — intended as a moment of worship and gratitude — turned into one of horror and chaos. Concerted gunfire erupted, causing panic. Worshippers scrambled, many fled for safety, but soon others were rounded up, bound, and forcefully taken away.
By the end of the attack, three people were confirmed dead and another injured. Then came the gut-wrenching reality: dozens of worshippers had been abducted.
The church leadership initially had a list of 35 names, but upon verification, included three additional non-members who had also been seized — bringing the total number of abductees to 38. Rumours of “over 60” abducted circulated online, but the church publicly dismissed them to forestall misinformation.
Soon after the attack, the overall atmosphere in the community was one of immense fear and grief. Many questioned if a place of worship could ever again feel safe. The broader Christian community — including Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) — condemned the act in strong terms, calling it a stark reminder of the growing insecurity faced by religious communities in parts of Nigeria.
The Hard Waiting: Trauma, Rumours and Hope
In the days following the abduction, the entire town was gripped by sorrow, anxiety, and uncertainty. Families of the abducted held on to hope, while rumours proliferated — some claiming more victims, some claiming ransom had been paid, others alleging security agencies were hampering rescue attempts.
On Sunday, November 23, the church courageously held its first service since the attack — inside the same blood-stained auditorium. Attendance was sparse. Many stayed away out of fear; others attended to seek spiritual solace. During the service, the church secretary re-affirmed the verified number of abductees (38), clarified the fatalities and injuries, and appealed for calm while encouraging faith and resilience among congregants.
At that point, details were murky. The bandits had reportedly demanded a ransom — around ₦100 million per victim — but later reduced it to ₦20 million each. However, communication with them abruptly stopped. The church insisted on transparency, maintained a verified manifest of names and phone numbers of victims, and begged the public and authorities to avoid spreading unverified figures.
While the abductees remained missing, the community prayed. Churches around the country, under directives from CAC’s leadership, observed special intercessory sessions for their release, as worried families held vigil and gripped onto hope.
How the Victims Were Freed
Security agencies, including the DSS and the military, worked behind the scenes to track the kidnappers and negotiate the survivors’ release. The government later confirmed that all 38 abducted worshippers were rescued safely and brought to Ilorin for medical checkups and emotional support.
Their release brought both joy and questions—especially from worried families who wondered why they had not immediately been allowed to see their loved ones. Officials explained that health evaluations had to be completed first.
Emotional Reunion in Eruku
On December 3, the long-awaited moment came. The 38 rescued worshippers were officially handed over to the local authorities and returned to their families. Tears, hugs, songs of praise and overwhelming joy filled the town. Parents, children, friends and church members gathered to welcome them home after weeks of fear and sleepless nights.
While happiness filled the air, the community also remembered those who lost their lives. The attack left emotional wounds, and many survivors will need time to heal from the trauma.
A Community on the Path to Healing
The Eruku incident has sparked conversations about safety in worship centers and rural communities. Many residents say they no longer feel completely safe in places that once symbolized peace and refuge. Still, the people remain strong, united, and determined to rebuild their sense of security.
The successful rescue shows what is possible when authorities respond swiftly. But it also highlights the need for better protection, stronger community policing, and continued support for victims of such traumatic events.
