Former governor and Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has condemned Tuesday evening’s terrorist attack on Eruku, a community in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, calling on the federal government and security agencies to act urgently to rescue abducted residents.

In a statement on Wednesday, Saraki described the attack as “seriously disturbing,” noting that it shattered the normally peaceful atmosphere of the town. Several residents were injured, while others, including a pastor, were kidnapped during the assault.

“Yesterday, I received the sad news of the terrorist attack on Eruku town in my home state, Kwara. Some residents were injured while others were kidnapped. This is seriously disturbing news that has disrupted the serene and peaceful atmosphere of our town,” Saraki said.

He expressed condolences to the victims and their families, praying for divine healing and strength:
“I sympathise with all the victims and their relatives. I pray for Allah’s healing, restoration, and strength at this difficult time.”

Saraki urged the federal government to prioritise rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all abducted persons. He also called for comprehensive security arrangements to protect Eruku and other vulnerable communities across Kwara State.

“I call on the Federal Government, particularly the heads of our security agencies, to urgently act to ensure that the kidnapped victims regain their freedom and return home safely to their loved ones. I also enjoin the security agencies to put a solid arrangement in place to secure Eruku town and all parts of Kwara State,” he said.

Highlighting Kwara’s strategic location as a gateway between northern and southern Nigeria, Saraki stressed the state’s importance in national security:
“The state is one of the gateways into the country and a link between the southern and northern parts. This makes it deserving of a special security arrangement that will not jeopardise our national interest and internal peace. May Allah (SWT) heal our land and help us defeat all those waging wars against Nigeria.”

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the attack, which occurred around 6 pm on Tuesday, November 18. According to Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the Divisional Police Officer of Eruku and his team, in coordination with local vigilantes, responded promptly to gunfire reported from the outskirts of the town.

According to witnesses, the attackers stormed a branch of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) during a meeting, opening fire on worshippers and killing three people on the spot. Several others, including the pastor, were abducted and marched into the bush, while the assailants escaped via bush paths linking Eruku to neighbouring communities.

Residents of Eruku remain in shock and panic following the deadly raid, with local authorities and security agencies mobilising to secure the area and track down the perpetrators.