The 38 worshippers of the Christ Apostolic Church, CAC Oke-Isegun, Eruku, in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducted by bandits last Tuesday during an evening service, have regained their freedom.
They were brought to the Kwara State Government House Clinic by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, alongside other top security chiefs, and were received by Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, where they immediately began receiving medical attention.
One of the victims, Bamidele Emmanuel, recounted their ordeal in the kidnappers’ den, describing the experience as unimaginable, adding that the bandits maintain full control of the forests and that no captive could escape without their approval.
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A representative of the Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Oluwafemi Jaiyeoba, described the release as a welcome development and commended the swift intervention of both the state and federal governments.
Governor AbdulRazaq, while expressing joy over the safe return of the victims, cautioned that it is not yet time for celebration, given the large number of abductees still in captivity in Niger State and other parts of the country.
Following medical care and stabilisation, the victims are expected to reunite with their families.
The lingering question for many remains whether the victims were rescued or released and if any ransom was paid to secure their freedom. Only the government and time can provide clarity. But for the victims and their families, freedom is all that matters for now.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
