“‘We Celebrated When We Heard They Were Free But— they Never Came Home’Families in Eruku Still Await Return of Freed Church Worshippers”!

“‘We Celebrated When We Heard They Were Free But— they Never Came Home’Families in Eruku Still Await Return of Freed Church Worshippers”!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Days after 38 worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke‑Isegun, in Eruku, Kwara State, were declared freed from bandit captivity, many of their relatives say the newly‑released victims have still not been reunited with their families — leaving loved ones anxious and frustrated.

“We celebrated when we heard they had been released, but since that day, they never arrived in Eruku,” one relative told reporters. [1]

What Happened

• On November 18, 2025, suspected bandits attacked the CAC Oke‑Isegun church during a thanksgiving service and abducted dozens of worshippers. [2]
• On November 23, the state government announced that all 38 abducted worshippers had been freed following a joint rescue operation involving federal and state security agencies. [3]
• The freed worshippers were taken to the state capital, Ilorin, where they were received by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and given medical attention. [4]

What Went Wrong — Families Still Waiting

According to a recent report, the 38 freed worshippers remain in custody at a hotel or secure facility in Ilorin, days after their rescue. Their families say they have been unable to see them in person. [1]

• Medical evaluation and trauma‑care have reportedly delayed their return, but relatives say the prolonged separation is straining families emotionally. [1]
• Many in Eruku and the surrounding communities say they are puzzled and disappointed — having celebrated their release, they expected a swift reunion. Why It Matters
• The situation underscores the difficulties faced by abducted victims and their families even after “rescue” — logistical, medical, and bureaucratic hurdles can prolong reunification.
• It raises questions about transparency and communication from authorities: families say they were left in the dark about why their loved ones weren’t flown home sooner.
• Delayed reunification may worsen trauma for freed captives — leftover fear, uncertainty, and community disruption could make recovery harder. What to Watch
• Whether the state government or relevant authorities provide clear updates on when the freed worshippers will be reunited with their families.
• Psychological care, support and reintegration programmes for the freed individuals — especially for those deeply traumatised by their captivity.
• Broader community impact: how the delay affects trust in rescue operations, and whether similar incidents prompt calls for improved victim‑support protocols.

Citations:

1. Punch: punchng.com/freed-38-kwara-church-worshippers-still-held-in-ilorin/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Punch: punchng.com/kwara-church-holds-service-after-attack-confirms-38-worshippers-abducted/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/11/breaking-38-victims-abducted-from-kwara-church-regain-freedom/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/11/freed-abductees-receive-medical-attention-in-kwara-government-house/?utm_source=chatgpt.com