Bandits Demand ₦3 Billion Ransom for Kwara Church Abductees as Community Reacts in Protest

Armed bandits who attacked the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Tuesday have demanded a total ransom of ₦3 billion for the release of abducted worshippers. According to security sources and community accounts, the attackers are seeking ₦100 million for each of the 30 to 35 individuals they kidnapped during the assault.

Attack Occurs During Church Service, Leaves Three Dead

The attack, which occurred in the midst of a church service, resulted in the tragic deaths of three congregants. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as heavily armed men stormed the church, firing sporadically and forcing worshippers to flee in panic. Survivors said the bandits kept the victims in the surrounding forest for hours, making communication with families difficult and heightening the community’s fear.

Families Contacted as Kidnappers Insist on Full Ransom

A community leader, whose relatives were among the kidnapped, confirmed that the attackers have begun contacting families in small clusters, demanding full ransom payments for each victim. Residents reported that the bandits operated with a high degree of coordination, using the cover of the forested area to evade immediate security response.

Community Outrage: Highway Blocked in Protest

The violent incident has sent shockwaves across Eruku and neighbouring communities. In protest, local youths blocked the Ilorin–Kabba highway, demanding urgent intervention from state and federal authorities to rescue the abducted worshippers. Community members expressed outrage over what they described as the increasing brazenness of kidnappers targeting places of worship in Kwara State.

Security Agencies Intensify Search Operations

In response, security agencies have intensified operations in the forests along the Kwara–Kogi border, deploying both local and federal personnel to track down the assailants and recover the victims.

State Government Calls for Federal Support

The Kwara State Government has also called on federal security agencies to provide additional support in tackling the escalating crisis, emphasizing the urgent need to protect lives and property.

Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid Escalating Threats

The state’s police command and local authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security forces. Meanwhile, the families of the abducted worshippers are appealing for swift action to ensure the safe release of their loved ones.

Growing Trend of Attacks on Religious Institutions Raises Alarm

This incident adds to the growing number of violent kidnappings and attacks on religious institutions in northern and central Nigeria, raising concerns about security gaps and the urgent need for stronger preventive measures. As the search for the abducted worshippers continues, the Eruku community remains on high alert, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis.