DSS, Military Contacted Bandits to Free 38 Kwara Church Worshippers

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, says a non-kinetic operation involving the Department of State Services (DSS) and the military led to the release of the 38 worshippers abducted from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, in Kwara State.

The victims were seized on November 18 during an attack on the church in Ekiti LGA.

The incident triggered nationwide outrage and prompted intensified security engagement at the highest level.

On November 21, Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the DSS, briefed President Tinubu on the escalating security concerns across the country.

Two days later, the President announced that all abducted worshippers had regained freedom.

“Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued,” Tinubu said, adding that he was receiving “continuous updates from the frontline”.

Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, Onanuga confirmed that security authorities established direct contact with the abductors to ensure the safe return of the victims.

“After the incident, the DSS and the military were involved in the rescue effort. They got in contact with the bandits to release the captives unharmed,” he said.

He noted that the abductors understood the consequences of refusing government pressure, adding that security agencies have established tactics for tracking and communicating with such networks.

“They (bandits) know the consequences of not acquiescing to government demands. They know they could be pummelled,” Onanuga stated.

He explained that a full kinetic assault could have endangered the hostages, as insurgent groups typically use abductees as human shields.

“Attacking their base could be risky because you can kill the civilians,” he added.

Onanuga disclosed that the military is expected to determine the “next line of action” in dealing with the perpetrators.

The presidency has not disclosed whether any ransom was paid for the release.