Amanze Chinonye
The Presidency has disclosed fresh details on how security agencies secured the release of 38 churchgoers abducted last Tuesday in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Monday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the joint efforts of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian military forced the kidnappers to free the captives on Sunday.
According to Onanuga, the rescue operation was driven by intelligence and real-time tracking systems deployed by the security agencies, enabling them to closely monitor the abductors’ movements. He said the operatives established direct contact with the bandits and issued a firm directive demanding the safe release of all the abducted worshippers.
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“They made contact with the bandits to secure the release of the captives. Security agencies have systems for tracking these criminals, allowing them to monitor developments in real time,” Onanuga said.
“They reached out to the kidnappers and demanded the release of the victims, and they complied, aware of the consequences of defying government directives.”
The presidential aide further explained that the abductors surrendered to the pressure mounted by the security forces and understood the repercussions of ignoring the government’s ultimatum.
According to Prime Business Africa, All 38 victims were later confirmed freed by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who also credited President Tinubu for personally driving federal-level coordination to ensure their release.
The abducted worshippers were taken during an attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Isegun, in Eruku last week, a raid that triggered public outrage and renewed calls for improved security presence across rural communities in the state, Prime Business Africa reports.
Security analysts say the rescue underscores the government’s increasing reliance on intelligence-led operations in handling mass abductions, though questions remain about follow-up actions, including arrests or dismantling of the criminal network involved.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any suspects have been apprehended following the release.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
