The 38 rescued members of the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, in Kwara State, have still not been reunited with their families, several days after regaining freedom, findings have revealed.
The worshippers, who were abducted by bandits on November 18 during a special thanksgiving service in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area, are reportedly being kept in an undisclosed hotel in Ilorin despite completing government-sponsored medical examinations.
Three people were killed and another sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.
The victims were released last Sunday and moved to Ilorin by government officials. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed their release through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye.
Although the statement did not state where or how they were freed, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, denied reports that ransom was paid, saying the government only negotiated with the bandits.
However, days after the announcement, the worshippers remain separated from their families, causing growing anxiety among relatives.
A family member of one of the victims, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the community had expected their return immediately after the release was announced.
He noted that although the families were grateful the victims were safe, the extended delay had become emotionally exhausting.
He said, “The government told us they are taking care of them. We celebrated when they called us on Sunday to say they had been released. Everyone was dancing and thanking God. But since that day, they have yet to arrive in Eruku.
“We miss them and hope to be reunited soon. At least we know they are out of the kidnappers’ den, but delayed expectations weigh heavily on the heart.”
Another relative voiced similar concerns, adding that conflicting reports in the community had heightened their worries.
She said, “We are hearing different stories about their whereabouts. But at least we saw them in the news on Sunday with the government, and we have spoken with them on the phone. They told us they were safe. Seeing them again will gladden our hearts.”
When asked whether the community contributed money for their release, a relative insisted no payment was made.
He explained, “We don’t know how they were freed or where. We only received calls from security officials on Sunday evening that our people had been released and were being taken to the Government House for medical attention.”
A senior government source, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the victims were still undergoing medical and psychological assessment in Ilorin.
The official stated, “They went through trauma and a harrowing experience, especially the young ones and the elderly. The government is concerned about their welfare and wants to give them the best medical care before allowing them to return home.”
On whether ransom was paid, the official said no.
He added, “The government cannot pay money to bandits, as doing so will send the wrong signal that crime pays. People should be commending the government for ensuring the abducted worshippers were freed unhurt. They will soon be reunited with their families.”
Residents of Eruku, while appreciating the medical intervention, said they were eager to welcome the worshippers back for proper community healing.
The Kwara State Government has not offered any explanation for the continued delay in reuniting the victims with their families.
When contacted, the Commissioner for Communication, Bolanle Olukoju, said she would provide details later, but a follow-up inquiry went unanswered.
Security sources close to the rescue operation suggested the victims may still be undergoing post-trauma evaluation and debriefing in a secure facility.
