In a significant development for national security, 38 worshippers who were abducted from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State, have regained their freedom. The successful rescue operation, which concluded on Sunday, November 23, is being attributed to the direct and hands-on involvement of President Bola Tinubu.
Presidential Intervention and Swift Action
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State officially announced the news, expressing immense gratitude to the President. According to a statement from the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, President Tinubu made the rescue mission a top priority. He cancelled his scheduled trip to the G20 Meeting in South Africa to personally oversee and coordinate the security response to the breaches in Kwara and Kebbi states.
The President's commitment was further demonstrated by his directive for heightened security deployments to Kwara State. This move underscores a firm dedication to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
Coordinated Security Efforts Bear Fruit
The rescue was not an isolated effort but the result of a coordinated push by the nation's security apparatus, acting on the President's orders. Governor AbdulRazaq extended his appreciation to several key agencies, including:
- The Office of the National Security Adviser
- The Department of State Services (DSS)
- The Nigerian Army
- The Nigeria Intelligence Agency
- The Nigeria Police Force, which deployed four new tactical teams to Kwara State
The governor also thanked members of the security forces, community thought leaders, religious institutions, and the people of Kwara for their overwhelming support and goodwill following the traumatic incident.
Broader Security Updates from the President
In his reaction to the successful operation, President Tinubu expressed his delight. He also used the opportunity to deliver another positive security update, revealing that 51 out of the missing students from a Catholic school in Niger State have been recovered.
The President reassured the nation of his unwavering focus on security, stating, "I am closely monitoring the security situation nationwide and receiving continuous updates from the frontline. Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people."
This series of successful rescues signals a potentially intensified and more coordinated approach to tackling the security challenges facing the country.
