Security tensions have deepened in Kwara State after armed attackers stormed the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, on Tuesday evening. They killed three worshippers and abducted thirty five others during a thanksgiving service.
The congregation had gathered around 6:30 pm to celebrate the release of eighteen kidnapped residents who recently regained their freedom. Unknown to them, a group of armed bandits had reportedly positioned themselves on trees around the church for hours before striking.
Worship was underway when the sound of gunfire erupted outside the church premises. Panic spread as the attackers forced their way inside and shot indiscriminately. Three worshippers were killed instantly, and dozens were taken into the nearby forest.
Resident Pastor Lawrence Abiodun Bamidele said the attack happened suddenly. He explained that one of the gunmen had hidden on a tree outside the church and shot at those attempting to escape. He added that the bandits had made several failed attempts in the past month to enter the community through the Eruku Egbe and Eruku Omu Aran routes.
Community members expressed frustration over what they described as weeks of unanswered calls for help. They acknowledged support from local police officers and vigilantes, but argued that the state and local authorities failed to respond early enough to prevent the attack.
Residents Demand Investigation
Some residents claimed the timing of the attack raised questions. They noted that several local vigilantes were taken to Ilorin days earlier for training as Forest Guards. They also alleged that similar circumstances preceded another attack in Oke Ode months ago. Youth leaders urged the Inspector General of Police to intervene and probe security lapses in the area.
A victim, Adesuyi Joshua, who lost his wife and granddaughter to the abduction, said initial gunshots were mistaken for fireworks. He accused security operatives of failing to respond during the attack. He added that residents were tear gassed when they attempted to mobilise and pursue the gunmen.
Another youth leader, Shola Peters, alleged that the local police division had not shown adequate commitment to community security despite receiving support from residents. He called for a full investigation into the Eruku division and its activities.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq visited the community on Wednesday and announced plans to establish a Forward Operating Base of the Nigerian Army and a Mobile Police Squadron in Eruku. He said he had spoken with top military and police authorities to fast track security reinforcements.
The state government also directed the closure of schools in four local government areas due to rising insecurity. The Nigeria Union of Teachers confirmed the directive and cited alerts from the Ministry of Education.
Protests Erupt as Residents Block Highway
Earlier on Wednesday, angry youths barricaded the Ilorin Kabba Expressway in protest and accused security agencies of leaving them vulnerable during the attack. A vigilante familiar with recent operations suggested foul play and pointed out similarities with previous attacks in Kwara border towns.
Security officials, including the state Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, and the Director of the Department of State Services, visited the community and promised swift action. Authorities also announced the deployment of additional security personnel and an Armoured Personnel Carrier.
Traditional Ruler, Saraki Condemn Attack
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, condemned the attack and described it as unfortunate, condemnable and worrisome. He urged security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki also expressed sadness over the incident and called for urgent federal intervention. He said the attack underscored the need for a long term security strategy for Kwara, given its strategic importance as a gateway between northern and southern Nigeria.
Residents say the Eruku attack reflects a growing pattern of bandit incursions into Kwara border communities. They attribute this to poor road access, porous borders and limited security presence. Many fear the attackers may regroup and strike again unless decisive action is taken.
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