Armed bandits have demanded a staggering N100 million ransom for each of the 38 worshippers they abducted during a church service in Kwara State, bringing the total ransom demand to an unprecedented N3.8 billion.
Church Invasion During Service
The terrifying incident occurred on Tuesday, November 18, when gunmen stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti local government area of Kwara State. The attackers disrupted the ongoing church service, shooting sporadically and creating panic among the congregation.
During the violent attack, five worshippers were killed while thirty-eight others were forcibly taken away by the assailants. The community has been thrown into mourning and anxiety as families await news about their loved ones.
Kidnappers Make Contact With Families
Chief Olusegun Olukotun, the Olori Eta of Eruku and a community leader, confirmed on Thursday, November 20 that the kidnappers have begun reaching out to families of the victims. The bandits have organized the captives according to their family relationships and are making separate ransom demands.
"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 of the group," Chief Olukotun stated. "Some people in the community have received calls from the kidnappers demanding N100m for each person."
Community Leader's Personal Ordeal
The community leader revealed his personal connection to the tragedy, explaining that he was present in the church with five family members when the attack occurred. In a desperate bid for survival, Chief Olukotun and one of his wards managed to escape through the church window around 6:06 p.m. during the chaos.
Tragically, four of his relatives remain among the kidnapped victims. "As regard my own people I have not received any call concerning them, so I am still waiting," he expressed with evident concern.
The Eruku community remains in shock as security agencies work to secure the release of the abducted church members. The massive ransom demand has raised concerns about the escalating nature of kidnapping cases in the region and the need for enhanced security measures around places of worship.
