Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has called for immediate reinforcement of security measures in Ekiti Local Government Area following a deadly attack on Eruku community that left multiple casualties and kidnap victims.
Deadly Assault on Worshipers
Masked gunmen stormed a church in Eruku on Tuesday, unleashing violence that resulted in approximately five fatalities and numerous injuries. The assailants also abducted several worshippers, including the church pastor, during the brutal invasion.
Governor AbdulRazaq, through his Chief Press Secretary Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, described the incident as "unconscionable" and expressed solidarity with the affected community. The governor specifically mentioned his sympathy for the families impacted by the tragedy and the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) where the attack occurred.
Immediate Security Response
The state government has requested urgent deployment of additional security personnel to support existing security architecture in the Eruku axis. Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized that this new security measure needs immediate activation to contain the fresh wave of violence in the region.
In a positive development for state security, the governor acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's recent deployment of 900 additional troops to Kwara State. AbdulRazaq expressed confidence that these reinforcements would provide stronger deterrence against criminal elements and ensure permanent calm in previously troubled areas.
"We have indeed seen appreciable calm in many areas previously affected. We are confident that the additional troops will provide further deterrence, overall safety for our people, and permanent calm," the governor's statement affirmed.
Political Leaders Unite in Condemnation
Former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, who previously governed Kwara State, joined in condemning the Eruku attack, describing it as "shocking and deeply distressing." Saraki emphasized that the violence had disrupted the typically peaceful atmosphere of the town and demanded immediate action from security authorities.
Saraki highlighted Kwara's strategic importance as a gateway state connecting northern and southern Nigeria, arguing that this position warrants special security arrangements to protect national interests and internal peace.
The former governor called on federal authorities and security agency heads to secure the safe release of kidnapped victims and implement robust, long-term security solutions for the state. He concluded with prayers for divine intervention, saying: "May Allah (SWT) heal our land and help us defeat all those waging wars against Nigeria."
The coordinated response from both current and former state leaders underscores the seriousness of the security situation in Kwara State and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to protect citizens.
