In a celebratory homecoming, 38 worshippers taken by gunmen have made their way back to Eruku, Kwara State.
According to a press release issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Ekiti Local Government Council Chairman, Prince Dada Sunday, the group was freed following a coordinated rescue mission involving President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The returnees reached Eruku at about 6:30 pm on Tuesday, welcomed by jubilant relatives and community members.
The statement noted that the freed worshippers were formally handed over to the Executive Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Council, Honourable Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, in Ilorin by Governor AbdulRasaq, marking the end of their difficult experience.
Sunday emphasized that the handover ceremony highlighted the unwavering efforts of authorities and security operatives who played vital roles in the rescue.
Honourable Awelewa expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRasaq, the National Security Adviser, and all security teams involved. He praised the president and governor especially for their quick intervention, which paved the way for the timely rescue.
He also acknowledged the medical support and care provided to the abductees after their release, reassuring Ekiti Local Government residents of his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across all 10 wards.
The Owa of Eruku also shared his appreciation, commending all who contributed to the mission. He said the safe return of the worshippers has restored hope and happiness to the town, underscoring what collective action can achieve in safeguarding citizens.