ILORIN, Kwara State — The Kwara State Police Command confirmed on Wednesday that suspected bandits killed at least two people and injured one in a brazen attack on a church and nearby highway in Eruku, a border town in Ekiti Local Government Area.
According to the state police, the gunmen struck around 6 p.m. on 18 November 2025, opening fire on worshippers inside a branch of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Isegun, before fleeing into the bush when security forces responded.
What the Police Say
In a statement, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the Police Public Relations Officer, said the Divisional Police Officer in Eruku led a rapid response alongside local vigilantes after gunshots erupted from the outskirts of the community.
- Mr. Aderemi, a male worshipper, was found fatally shot inside the church building.
- Mr. Tunde Asaba Ajayi was discovered dead in the bush.
- A vigilante, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to ECWA Hospital, Eruku for treatment.
CP Adekimi Ojo, Kwara’s police commissioner, praised the swift reaction of officers and vigilantes and vowed that security agencies “will not relent until these hoodlums are totally decimated.”
Contradictory Eyewitness Reports: More Dead, Abductions
Even though police have confirmed two deaths, several eyewitness accounts claim the toll was higher.
Some reports indicate that three worshippers were shot dead inside the church — one of them identified as “Deremi” — and that around 10 people, including the pastor, were abducted. Locals say the attackers stormed in from nearby bushes, unleashed gunfire, and marched a group of congregants into the forest.
Another Attack: Travellers Hit Along Ilorin–Kabba Road
The gunmen did not stop at the church. They also launched an assault on travellers along the Ilorin–Kabba Road. Motorists reportedly abandoned their vehicles and fled into the surrounding bushes as shots rang out.
A traveller returning from Niger State described the chaos in an audio message, saying two people were killed instantly on the road and that no one knew how many others were taken during the raid.
Community Fear Boils Over
Residents say Eruku has faced repeated attacks for the past three weeks. Their appeals to local and state authorities, according to community leaders, have produced little meaningful action.
Benjamin Ayeoribe, a community figure, said the situation has become unbearable, adding that the town desperately needs federal intervention to halt the recurring violence.
Government Response: Condemnation and Promises
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq condemned the attack, calling it “unconscionable.” He ordered an immediate strengthening of security deployment around the Eruku axis and emphasized support for the additional 900 troops recently assigned to Kwara.
Why This Attack Stings Harder
This was not a random raid — it was a direct assault on worshippers gathered for service. People were shot inside a sanctuary. Others may have been dragged into the forest.
The conflicting casualty numbers hint at chaos, possible underreporting, or both. What is certain is that residents have grown increasingly frustrated and fearful, saying they have repeatedly warned about the deteriorating security situation.
What Comes Next?
- Investigation: Police say they are combing surrounding areas to track down the attackers.
- Tighter Security: The governor has called for increased deployments in border communities.
- Rescue Efforts: If abductions are confirmed, families will be pushing for immediate intervention.
The Eruku attack underscores a sobering truth: border communities in Kwara are becoming hotspots for violent raids. As investigations continue, residents are left hoping that this time, the authorities follow through — not with promises, but with protection.