By Abiola Olawale
Nigerians have begun to demand immediate action on insecurity following a devastating attack by armed bandits on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State.
The assault, which reportedly claimed the lives of three persons and the abductions of many, has sparked mass panic.
The New Diplomat reports that the community of Eruku was plunged into chaos on Tuesday after a group of heavily armed bandits stormed the local CAC church.
Eyewitnesses in the community said that the attackers stormed the area “suddenly and heavily armed,” forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
“They came around nightfall and started shooting. Two people were killed instantly, and we don’t even know how many were taken,” one resident said.
Another resident lamented that Eruku had been under “perpetual attacks for the last three weeks,” with bandits striking repeatedly despite several distress calls.
“We have begged the local and state governments for help, but nothing concrete has come. We are living in fear every day,” he added.
Reacting, a former Governor of Kwara State lamented the attack on the CAC Church in the state.
Saraki called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to quickly intervene and ensure that the perpetrators of the attack are caught.
Saraki said: “Yesterday, I received the sad news of the terrorist attack on Eruku town in my home State, Kwara. In the terrible incident, some residents were injured while others were kidnapped. It is seriously disturbing news that has disrupted the usually serene and peaceful atmosphere of the town located in the southern part of our dear state.
“I sympathise with all the victims and their relatives. I pray for Allah’s healing, restoration, and strength at this difficult time.
“I call on the Federal government, particularly the heads of our security agencies to urgently act to ensure that the kidnapped victims of this sad incident regain their freedom and return home safely to their loved ones. I also enjoin the security agencies to put a solid arrangement in place that will secure Eruku town, in particular, and all parts of Kwara State.
“The state is one of the gateways into the country and a link between the southern and northern parts. This makes it deserving of a special security arrangement that will not jeopardise our national interest and internal peace.”
Also, Pastor Emmanuel Iren of the Celebration Church International, reacting to the development said: “For a Country where most people already provide their own water, electricity, and everything, we shouldn’t have to also provide our own security.
“We have a government. This monstrosity cannot continue.”
Popular Nigerian comedian, Ayo Makun, also known as AY stated: “Nigeria is turning into a crime scene. Bandits storm churches to kill and abduct Christians. Children are kidnapped from schools. A Brigadier General is shot dead. Every day brings fresh chaos yet the government remains silent.
“How did we get here? And must outsiders come to fix what our leaders refuse to confront?
“Which way Nigeria? We need safety, accountability, and real action, not silence.”
Popular Nigerian actress, Funke Akindele said: “Woke up to see a livestream video of people being attacked inside a church in Kwara. This is sad and disturbing. I wept seeing that old woman who couldn’t walk well running for safety.”
