Kwara Church Abductions: Bandits Demand N3bn Ransom

Armed bandits abducted 30 to 35 worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Igan, in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State during a violent Tuesday evening attack. The attackers are reportedly demanding N100 million per victim, totaling N3 billion if all are released, according to church sources.

Pastor Lawrence Bamidele, who leads the church, confirmed the abductions, while multiple family members and community leaders said the kidnappers had begun contacting relatives using the victims’ phones. Elder Josiah Agbabiaka, Secretary of the assembly, said the first group of 11 victims is being held for ransom. Chief Olusegun Olukotun, Olori Eta of Eruku, whose four relatives were abducted, described the kidnappers’ systematic calls to families and recounted how he escaped through a window during the attack, while others, including members of his family, were taken.

The Owa of Eruku, Oba Busari Olarewaju, called for urgent government intervention to secure the release of the worshippers. He acknowledged the recent deployment of military personnel following the visit of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq but urged intensified efforts. Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi stated that the command has not received official reports of ransom demands but assured residents that police, alongside the military, are actively working to rescue the abductees and urged the public to provide any information that could aid operations.

The attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents that have shaken Kwara State, historically regarded as one of the safer areas in the North-Central region. The Christian Association of Nigeria condemned the abductions, describing the incident as “a heartbreaking reminder of the growing insecurity facing Christian communities across the country.” Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN President, expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and urged swift action from security agencies, calling for a transparent investigation to identify security lapses and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Residents, youth groups, and vigilante members clashed verbally with Eruku LGA Chairman Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, accusing him of neglecting local security despite repeated attacks. Community members said support for vigilante operations had dwindled, with limited fuel and ammunition. The Speaker of Ekiti LGA Legislative Assembly, Fatoyinbo Micheal, defended the council chairman, saying interventions were made promptly after the attack and highlighting efforts such as mobilizing vigilantes, providing transport for injured victims, refurbishing police vehicles, and supplying weapons and ammunition. Michael described claims of inaction as politically motivated misinformation.

As families await news of their loved ones, security agencies continue to coordinate efforts to ensure the safe release of the abducted worshippers.