Nigeria is in shock after armed bandits launched a deadly attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State, killing three worshippers and abducting the pastor and several others during a Sunday service. The assault has heightened national concern over the spread of violent crime into regions previously considered relatively safe.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants stormed the church around the early hours of worship, firing repeatedly and causing chaos as congregants attempted to flee. Local security volunteers said the attackers arrived on motorcycles and retreated into a nearby forest with their hostages.
Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a “tragic and unacceptable act of terror,” while assuring that a joint operation involving the police, hunters, and vigilantes has been launched to track the kidnappers. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited in a local morgue.
Residents of Eruku community expressed fear and anger, calling on both the state and federal governments to address the escalating insecurity and protect communities from bandit incursions. Religious leaders across the state have condemned the attack, urging worshippers not to lose faith but to remain vigilant.
Security analysts say the attack is a sign of bandit groups expanding operations beyond the Northwest, stressing the urgent need for coordinated intelligence and better policing across state borders.
Sources
Daily Trust — community accounts and police confirmation
The Nation — details of casualties and abductions
Channels Television — security response and state reaction
Premium Times — background on cross-state bandit operations
