In a heartwarming development that has brought relief to many families, the 38 worshippers kidnapped from Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara state, have finally regained their freedom after five traumatic days in captivity.
Presidential Announcement and Emotional Reunions
The news of their release was officially confirmed by President Bola Tinubu, who made the announcement on his X page on Sunday, November 24, 2025. The victims had been abducted during a church service on Tuesday, November 18, when suspected bandits stormed their place of worship.
As the news spread across the country, family members who had endured days of uncertainty and fear began sharing their emotional experiences. Three Nigerians in particular came forward with powerful testimonies about their relatives' safe return.
Three Powerful Testimonies of Relief
Dunamis Member's Emotional Testimony
A Nigerian woman belonging to the popular Dunamis church created a moving moment during a service when she testified about the release of her sister and nephew. The woman shared the emotional moment she received the news that her loved ones were safe.
Her comments about the alleged payment of ransom particularly caught people's attention in a video shared by Pastor Paul Enenche, the senior pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre.
Family Member Addresses Ransom Rumors
A young Nigerian man whose relative was among those kidnapped provided crucial updates regarding speculation about ransom payments. In a post on his X page, the man confirmed that his cousin sister had been released and made a significant statement about the circumstances of her freedom.
The young man explicitly stated that no ransom was paid for his relative's release, contradicting circulating rumors about financial transactions with the kidnappers.
Doctor Shares Cousin's Rescue Photo
A Nigerian doctor trended on social media after sharing photographic evidence of the rescue operation. The medical professional posted a picture showing his cousin among those successfully rescued from the kidnappers' den.
The viral post sparked numerous comments from social media users who expressed relief and support for the victims. Before the rescue, the doctor had made desperate appeals for help, revealing on November 18 that "My two aunties were kidnapped in this video, the old woman running slowly is my grandma.... Please @HQNigerianArmy @PoliceNG Help !!!!"
Community Reactions and Ongoing Concerns
The emotional impact of the kidnapping extended beyond the immediate families. A young Nigerian woman had earlier gone viral with her emotional outcry about the attack, revealing that her cousin and the cousin's baby were among those taken.
Her heartfelt post had drawn widespread sympathy and prayers from Nigerians online, with many urging authorities to act swiftly to ensure the safe return of all captives.
While the successful release of all 38 worshippers has brought celebration and relief to the Eruku community and beyond, the incident has raised serious concerns about security measures in places of worship and the growing frequency of such attacks in various parts of Nigeria.
