A Catholic priest has sparked national conversation after raising serious questions about the recent kidnapping incident at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State. Father Kelvin Ugwu's observations came following the Kwara State government's announcement about the release of 38 kidnapped worshippers.
Priest's Critical Observations
Father Kelvin Ugwu, a Catholic priest of the Missionary Society of St Paul of Nigeria, took to social media to express his doubts about the official narrative. In a detailed Facebook post, the reverend father highlighted several inconsistencies that have left many Nigerians questioning the truth about the incident.
The priest specifically questioned the number of released victims, noting that video evidence from the attack showed fewer than 20 people in the church. He wrote: "They said that 38 persons have been released from the Kwara Christ Apostolic Church kidnapping incident. Thirty-eight persons!!! But in the video we saw, the people in the church were not even up to 20."
Unanswered Questions About the Release
Beyond the numbers discrepancy, Father Ugwu raised critical questions about the circumstances surrounding the worshippers' release. He demanded clarity on whether the kidnappers were apprehended, if ransom was paid, or if the entire incident might have been staged.
The timing of the release also raised eyebrows, with the priest and many observers wondering how such a rapid resolution was achieved without apparent law enforcement intervention. The incident had sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with many concerned about the growing insecurity affecting places of worship.
Public Reaction and Support
The priest's questions resonated with many Nigerians who have become increasingly skeptical of official narratives regarding security incidents. Social media platforms exploded with reactions, with many users supporting Father Ugwu's demand for transparency.
One commenter, Peter Ahine, echoed the priest's concerns: "I asked myself the same questions. But I felt some people may have been within the premises or outside the camera coverage. But you see that hasty release? Unless ransom was paid in such a very short time or there's something someone is not telling us."
Another user, Olaleye Matthew Toluwalase, offered a different perspective: "Padre, the people in the church were more than 20. I've seen the full clip of the said church service. Why we were able to see only the pastor and few others was that the phone was positioned in an area which focused on the sanctuary/pulpit alone."
Community Celebration Amid Questions
Despite the unanswered questions, residents of Eruku community were captured celebrating the return of their loved ones. Videos shared on social media showed women from the community rejoicing and singing Yoruba songs of thanksgiving.
The church invasion and subsequent abduction had lasted five days before the announced release on Sunday, November 23. The incident had drawn both local and international attention to the security challenges facing religious communities in Nigeria.
As celebrations continue in Eruku, Father Ugwu's questions remain largely unanswered by authorities. The case has highlighted the growing public demand for transparency in handling security matters and the need for credible information during crisis situations.
Emmanuel Moses summarized the frustration of many Nigerians: "Same question we asked... But who will answer us? Maybe Gumi can answer us since he's their ambassador for negotiating with the bandits!"
