Thirty-eight worshippers kidnapped in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have safely returned home weeks after their abduction.
The victims had remained in Ilorin for over a week to receive medical care following a coordinated rescue operation led by the Federal Government, Kwara State Government and the Office of the National Security Adviser. They were formally handed over on Tuesday to the chairman of Ekiti Local Government, Gabriel Awelewa.
The group arrived in Eruku around 6:30 p.m. the same day, where they were welcomed with emotional scenes as relatives and community members celebrated their return with tears, jubilation and thanksgiving.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Dada Sunday, the council chairman expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the National Security Adviser and the security agencies whose efforts ensured the victims’ safe rescue.
Awelewa also commended the quality of medical care provided for the abductees and assured residents that stronger security measures would be implemented across all wards in the local government.
The Owa of Eruku, Oba Busari Olanrewaju, praised all those involved in the rescue effort, describing the worshippers’ return as a major relief for the entire community.
Residents say the development has renewed public confidence in collaborative security operations aimed at reducing criminal activities in the region.
