By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Bandits Demand N100m Each for 30 Abducted Worshippers in Kwara Community
Bandits who stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State, on Tuesday have reportedly demanded N100 million ransom per victim after abducting more than 30 worshippers.
Family members who were contacted by the kidnappers confirmed the development on Thursday.
During the attack, which took place in Ekiti Local Government Area, the gunmen killed three persons, took away dozens of worshippers, and carted away valuables from the church.
The Olori Eta of Eruku, Chief Olusegun Olukotun, also confirmed the ransom demand. He revealed that four members of his family were among those kidnapped.
Recounting the incident, Olukotun said he was inside the church with five relatives when the gunmen invaded. He managed to escape by jumping out through a window around 6:06 p.m., fleeing with one of his wards.
He explained that the abductors had already begun calling different families. “From what we gathered from the kidnappers’ camp, they have grouped the victims according to their relations and are now calling our people through each group,” he said.
“Some people in the community have received calls demanding N100 million for each person. As for my own relatives, I have not been contacted yet, so I’m still waiting.”
The community leader also appealed for urgent security reinforcement in Eruku, a border community near Kogi State that has suffered repeated incursions from armed groups.
He urged the government to strengthen the local vigilante unit with modern equipment capable of withstanding the firepower of the attackers.
Eruku town has come under increasing pressure from bandits and armed groups operating along the Kwara–Kogi border corridor. Tuesday’s attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents targeting rural communities in the region.
During the assault on the church, worshippers were caught unprepared as the gunmen opened fire, killed three individuals, and abducted dozens before escaping into surrounding forest areas.
The incident triggered panic across the community, with families scrambling for information about their missing relatives.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that border towns like Eruku remain vulnerable due to limited security presence and the ability of attackers to move easily across state lines.
Community leaders continue to push for better policing, improved surveillance, and support for local vigilantes who often serve as the first line of defence.
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