The 38 abducted worshippers of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, who were freed last Sunday, have yet to be reunited with their families, Hobnob News has learnt.
The victims, kidnapped by bandits on November 18 during a thanksgiving service in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, were transported to Ilorin after their release for medical examinations funded by the state government. They are reportedly still being held in an undisclosed hotel pending further evaluation.
Three persons were killed and one injured during the attack, which threw the rural community into mourning.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced their release through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye. Though the circumstances of their rescue were not disclosed, the Presidency, through its Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, insisted no ransom was paid, stating that negotiations—not payments—secured their freedom.
However, several days after the announcement, families say they remain anxious as they await the return of their loved ones.
A relative who spoke under anonymity said the community had expected the worshippers to return immediately after the Governor’s announcement.
“We were all celebrating when we heard they had been freed. But the wait is becoming emotionally draining,” he said.
Another family member expressed similar concerns, explaining that conflicting rumours within the community had increased their distress.
Despite the uncertainty, relatives confirmed they had spoken with the rescued victims, who assured them they were safe and receiving care.
A senior government official who spoke to Hobnob News confirmed that the victims remain in Ilorin, undergoing medical and psychological support.
“They went through a traumatic experience. The government wants to ensure they are properly stabilised before returning them home,” the source said.
When asked about ransom, the official reiterated that no payments were made.
Residents of Eruku, although appreciative of the state’s intervention, say they are eager to welcome the worshippers back for proper community healing and thanksgiving.
Meanwhile, government officials have remained silent on the exact timeline for their release. Efforts to reach the Commissioner for Communication, Bolanle Olukoju, were unsuccessful as she did not respond to follow-up enquiries.
Security operatives involved in the rescue hinted that the victims are likely undergoing debriefing and post-trauma evaluation at a secure location.
