Presidency Says DSS, Military Engaged Kidnappers Directly To Secure Freedom Of 38 Eruku Church Members
Story: Written by Daniel November 25,2025
The Federal Government has confirmed that Nigeria’s security agencies entered into direct communication with armed kidnappers to secure the safe release of the 38 worshippers abducted from a church in Eruku, located in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga revealed during an interview on Arise Television that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian military reached out to the abductors shortly after the incident. He stated that the kidnappers responded because they were fully aware of the consequences of ignoring government directives.
“Immediately after the attack, the DSS and the military took charge of the rescue mission. They contacted the bandits and insisted the victims be freed without injury. By Sunday, they were able to bring all the abducted persons out safely,” Onanuga said.
He further noted that the security agencies have developed sophisticated mechanisms for monitoring criminal groups, though they sometimes avoid rushing into confrontations to prevent endangering victims used as shields.
“Our security personnel — without revealing too much — have systems for tracking these criminals. They know their movements. The major challenge is avoiding collateral damage during rescue operations,” he explained.
Pressed on how the hostages were recovered without a gunfight — especially after the attackers reportedly killed some victims during the initial assault — Onanuga said the government’s top concern was to ensure the safe return of the abducted church members.
“They engaged the kidnappers because the criminals understand the repercussions of refusing government orders,” he stated. “The government’s primary task was to get the victims released, which has now been accomplished. The next steps belong to the security agencies.”
All 38 kidnapped worshippers were reportedly rescued alive, although no details have been released on whether further action will be taken against the perpetrators.
The attack on the Eruku church has heightened fears about worsening insecurity in Kwara South and surrounding areas, adding new urgency to calls for improved intelligence gathering, rapid response systems, and enhanced community safety structures.
