President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a message of relief to Nigerians, confirming the rescue of all 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State, following a violent attack by armed men suspected to be bandits.
In a statement signed on Sunday by the President, he recalled suspending his scheduled appearance at the G20 Summit in South Africa so he could personally coordinate security efforts across the country.
“You will recall that I cancelled my trip to the G20 summit in South Africa to enable me coordinate the security efforts at home,” Tinubu said.
The reassurance came days after terror and chaos erupted at a local church in Eruku. According to community accounts, the assailants stormed the worship center during a service, firing sporadically. The attack left several worshippers injured, two killed, and dozens whisked away into the forest. Shortly after the assault, the kidnappers reportedly demanded ₦100 million ransom to release their captives—a claim that rattled families already battling fear and uncertainty.
Tinubu confirmed that federal forces eventually secured the release of all abducted worshippers.
“Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued”, he said.
However, authorities have not issued any official statement confirming whether the alleged ransom was paid before the victims regained freedom, leaving room for speculation and public debate.
The President also gave an update on another high-profile abduction case in Niger State.
“I am equally happy that 51 out of the missing students of the Catholic School in Niger State, have been recovered,” he said.
He noted that he is receiving constant briefings from security operatives nationwide and remains fully engaged in efforts to combat rising insecurity.
“I am closely monitoring the security situation nationwide and receiving continuous updates from the frontline.
“I am closely monitoring the security situation nationwide and receiving continuous updates from the frontline”, he added.
Tinubu closed his statement with a firm pledge that the government’s resolve will not weaken:
“Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people.”