The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has called for immediate reinforcement of security in the Ekiti Local Government Area, especially around the Eruku axis, following fresh attacks in the community on Tuesday.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor urged the deployment of more security personnel to strengthen the existing security structure in the area.
“The Governor has requested immediate deployment of additional security operatives to support the current security architecture. He asked that the measure be activated without delay,” the statement read.
Describing the attack as “unconscionable,” AbdulRazaq sympathised with the people of Eruku and neighbouring communities, particularly the families and members of the Christ Apostolic Church who were directly affected.
He reassured residents that his administration would continue to support security agencies in their efforts to protect lives and property across Kwara State.
The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for recently deploying 900 additional troops to the state, saying the move would help strengthen security.
Earlier, it was reported that suspected bandits launched two separate attacks in the boundary community on Tuesday evening.
The first incident occurred at the Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku branch, where gunmen invaded during a special service, shooting at worshippers. Three people were killed instantly, while the pastor and several congregants were abducted.
Residents said the attackers fled through bush paths leading into neighbouring Kogi State, and the exact number of abducted victims remains uncertain.
Later that same evening, another group of attackers reportedly ambushed travellers and residents along the Ilorin–Kabba Road, forcing many to run into nearby bushes.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident.
Police spokesperson Adetohun Ejire-Adeyemi said an attempted attack took place around 6 p.m. The Divisional Police Officer in Eruku, local vigilantes, and police teams responded quickly, forcing the gunmen to retreat.
The police confirmed two deaths: a man identified as Mr Aderemi, who was shot inside the church, and Mr Tunde Asaba Ajayi, whose body was found in the bush. A vigilante, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and was taken to ECWA Hospital for treatment.
An eyewitness told reporters that the attackers stormed the church while worshippers were gathered and later marched some of them into the bush.
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A traveller passing through the area also disclosed in a voice note that people fled into the bush after running into the gunmen. “They came around 6:30 p.m. and started shooting. We don’t even know how many were taken,” he said.
A community leader, Benjamin Ayeoribe, lamented that Eruku had been facing continuous attacks for the past three weeks, and repeated calls for help had brought no meaningful response.
“We are living in fear every day,” he said.
