Segun Atanda/
Thirty‑eight members of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, have been freed five days after they were abducted by gunmen, Kwara State authorities announced on Sunday.
The worshippers were taken during an attack on the church at about 6pm on November 18, an evening service that was being live‑streamed.
According to community and church sources, the assailants forced the congregants into the bush.
Among the captives were ordinary church members, men, women and possibly non‑members, who have expressed relief and gratitude now that they are safe.
Church Secretary, Michael Agbabiaka, confirmed the number of abducted persons as 38, correcting earlier exaggerated figures.
The captors had initially demanded a ransom of N100 million per person, according to reports. However, by Sunday, the amount had reportedly dropped to N20 million each.
The state government credited the release of the abducted to a concerted security effort, including the direct involvement of President Bola Tinubu.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq thanked the President, saying his “hands‑on approach” was instrumental.
The November 18 attack left at least two confirmed dead, according to the Kwara State Police Command.
Police said they responded swiftly, forcing the attackers to flee into the bush, but no arrests were immediately made.
Residents say the attackers had positioned themselves on treetops around the church before the raid, suggesting prior planning.
Earlier on Sunday, church members held a subdued service within the same building where the attack occurred.
Pastor Bamidele Lawrence urged the congregation to remain steadfast, describing the ordeal as a test of faith.
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