Thirty-eight worshippers kidnapped few weeks ago in Eruku, Ekiti local government area of Kwara state, have been reunited with their relatives in their village.
The freed abductees had stayed in Ilorin for more than a week for medical attention following the rescue efforts organized by the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
They were handed over to the chairman of the Ekiti local government council, Mr. Gabriel Awelewa, in Ilorin on Tuesday.
The rescued worshippers arrived in Eruku, where they were welcomed by community members and family with songs of thanksgiving, loud cheers, and happy tears.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Ekiti local government chairman, Prince Dada Sunday, the chairman, Mr. Awelewa expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the National Security Adviser, and all security agencies for the swift response that led to the rescue of the abductees.
He praised the medical treatment and support provided to the victims after their release, assuring locals that his administration will continue to reinforce security architecture across the 10 wards of the local government.
The Owa of Eruku, Oba Busari Olanrewaju, also praised all officials involved in the rescue effort, characterizing the safe return of the worshippers as a major relief for the community.
The development has provided renewed optimism to villagers, who say the reunion highlights the efficacy of coordinated security measures in addressing criminal activities in the region.
