The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has called for urgent reinforcement of security in the Ekiti Local Government Area, particularly the Eruku axis, following a new wave of attacks in the community on Tuesday.
In a statement signed and released on Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, AbdulRazaq urged the deployment of additional security operatives to support existing personnel in the area.
“The Governor has sought immediate deployment of more security operatives to support the existing security architecture in the area.
“He requested that this new measure be activated immediately,” the statement read.
Condemning the “unconscionable attack,” the governor expressed sympathy for the people of Eruku and its environs, particularly families and members of the Christ Apostolic Church who were directly affected by the assault.
He reassured residents that the state government would continue to back security agencies in efforts to safeguard lives and property across Kwara State.
AbdulRazaq also commended President Bola Tinubu for the recent deployment of 900 additional troops to Kwara, noting that the move is expected to strengthen security in the state.
Ssuspected bandits on Tuesday launched two separate evening assaults in the boundary town.
In the first incident, gunmen stormed the Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku branch, during a special service, shooting sporadically and targeting worshippers.
It was gathered that three worshippers were killed on the spot, while the pastor and an unspecified number of congregants were abducted into the bush.
The exact number of abducted victims remains unclear, but residents said the gunmen escaped through bush paths leading to neighbouring communities in Kogi State.
Earlier the same evening, another group of attackers reportedly ambushed travellers and residents along the Ilorin–Kabba Road, forcing many to flee into nearby bushes.
The PUNCH
