Thirty-eight members of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke-Isegun, Eruku, in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, who were abducted by armed bandits during a Thanksgiving service, have regained their freedom.

The worshippers were released on Sunday, five days after the abduction.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed the development in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye, describing the news as a major relief for the government and people of Kwara State. He commended the collective efforts of security agencies who worked tirelessly throughout the rescue operation.

According to the governor, the successful operation followed the direct intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. While the exact location and circumstances of the release remain undisclosed as of press time, the statement noted that the victims were freed after days of sustained pressure and coordinated security actions.

Governor AbdulRazaq disclosed that President Tinubu cancelled his scheduled trip to the G20 meeting in South Africa to focus on the security breaches in Kwara and Kebbi States. The President also ordered additional security deployments to support the rescue efforts in Kwara.

The governor expressed profound appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Police Force. He revealed that four new police tactical teams were dispatched to the state on the President’s directive.

He further thanked religious leaders, community stakeholders, and residents for their prayers and support, noting that their solidarity strengthened confidence throughout the rescue process.

The Kwara State Government assured citizens that efforts are ongoing to reinforce security across all communities to prevent future incidents. Governor AbdulRazaq reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property in collaboration with federal authorities.