Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara, has received the 38 worshippers rescued from last week’s attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku.
The victims were attended to at the Government House clinic, where medical personnel provided care. Many of the victims appeared exhausted and traumatized.
One survivor described the ordeal as “harrowing,” highlighting the difficulty of escaping from the armed bandits.
Food, water, and medication were provided, while those in weak condition were admitted for further treatment.
A pastor of the church expressed gratitude to both the federal and state governments for their role in securing the release.
Governor Abdulrazaq met with some of the victims, assessed their condition, and emphasized that the release should not yet be considered a reason for celebration, as other captives remain in different states.
He also acknowledged President Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in facilitating the rescue.
Governor Abdulrazaq directed the police to pursue the attackers and bring them to justice.
The abduction occurred last Tuesday during a church service. Gunmen stormed the parish, killing three people and abducting 38 worshippers.
Eyewitnesses described the attackers as heavily armed and acting suddenly, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes.
The kidnappers initially demanded N3 billion for ransom but later reduced it to N760 million.
The incident prompted protests by angry youths in the community.
In response, President Tinubu postponed scheduled trips to Johannesburg, South Africa, and Luanda, Angola, awaiting security updates on both the church victims and the abducted Kebbi schoolgirls.
Prior to the announcement of the victims’ release, the church held its first service since the attack.
The church secretary, Michael Agbabiaka, confirmed the number of abducted worshippers. Despite lingering fear, members attended the service to demonstrate faith and resilience.
In his sermon, Pastor Bamidele Lawrence described the incident as a test of faith, likening the ordeal to the trials faced by the Israelites, and reassured the congregation that the abducted would return safely.
