Tinubu Orders 24-Hour Security Sweep of Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger Forests Amid Surge in Terror Attacks

President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive security operation across the forests of Kwara State, extending the measure to Kebbi and Niger States in response to a recent spike in terrorist attacks and mass abductions. The President instructed the Air Force to intensify aerial surveillance over remote forest areas suspected of harboring terrorists, as part of a broader effort to curb kidnappings and violent incidents. According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, the operation will include 24-hour monitoring and close coordination with ground security units. “This directive also covers the Kebbi and Niger states axis, where many victims are expected to be rescued,” the statement noted. Local communities have been called upon to promptly report any unusual movements or activities to support the work of security forces.

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BREAKING: Terrorists Invade Isapa Community In Kwara, Kidnap Pregnant Woman, Children, And Nursing Mothers

Terrorists have launched a violent attack on Isapa community in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, kidnapping a pregnant woman, 10 children, two nursing mothers, and several other residents. According to reports, around 20 to 30 armed bandits invaded the community, driving a large herd of cattle and firing sporadically. An elderly woman was reportedly hit by a stray bullet during the assault. A community leader confirmed to National Pilot that 11 people were abducted, including seven members of the same family. The victims have been named as Talatu Kabiru, Magaji, Kande, Hadiza, Mariam, Saima, Habibat, Fatima Yusufu, Sarah Sunday (pregnant), Lami Fidelis (nursing mother), and Haja Na Allah. The attackers reportedly fled through bush paths connecting Eruku to nearby communities, leaving residents in panic and confusion. This attack comes barely two weeks after gunmen targeted Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), abducting 38 worshippers and killing others during the raid. Authorities later confirmed that all 38 church abductees were rescued.

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Bayo Onanuga Says 38 Churchgoers Were Freed From Kwara Kidnappers After Security Operatives Threatened Consequences

Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, has explained how 38 churchgoers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State, last Tuesday were safely released on Sunday, November 23. In an interview with Arise TV on November 24, Onanuga said the military and the Department of State Security (DSS) were instrumental in the operation. He revealed that security agencies contacted the kidnappers directly, making it clear that failure to release the victims would have serious consequences. “They engaged the bandits to secure the release of the captives. Our security agencies use real-time tracking systems to monitor such criminals. When they reached out and demanded the release of the victims, the kidnappers complied, fully aware of the repercussions of disobeying government orders,” Onanuga stated.

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BREAKING: 38 Worshippers Kidnapped From CAC Oke-Isegun In Kwara Regain Freedom

All 38 people kidnapped during last week’s attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke-Isegun in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have regained their freedom, the state government confirmed on Sunday. Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, said the release followed days of sustained efforts by security agencies and government representatives. He credited the success to President Bola Tinubu’s hands-on approach, noting that the president had postponed a scheduled G20 trip to South Africa to address security breaches in Kwara and Kebbi States. Tinubu also ordered heightened security deployments across the state to ensure the safety of citizens. Ajakaye extended the governor’s appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Police, which deployed four tactical teams under presidential directive. He also thanked local leaders, religious institutions, and residents for their support and cooperation during the crisis. On Sunday, CAC Oke-Isegun held its first church service since the attack, which left three people dead, 38 kidnapped, and several others injured. The service took place under tight security, with soldiers, SWAT, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Kwara Police, and local vigilantes present. During the service, church secretary Michael Agbabiaka clarified that 38 people were abducted, not the 60 reported on social media. He explained that the initial count included 35 members, with three additional non-members later confirmed among the victims. Agbabiaka also disclosed that the bandits initially demanded N100 million per victim, which was later negotiated down to N20 million each before communications with the kidnappers broke off on Friday. Despite the trauma, church leaders encouraged members to attend the service as an act of faith and resilience. Officiating pastor Bamidele Lawrence described the ordeal as a test of faith and said he received divine assurance that all abducted worshippers would return safely, likening their situation to the biblical trials of the Israelites. Congregants expressed gratitude for the safe return of the victims and for the ongoing security presence patrolling the town and the church.

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JUST IN: Bandits Demand N100 Million Each For 38 Worshippers Abducted In Kwara Church Attack

Bandits who abducted 38 worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku, in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State have reportedly demanded N100 million ransom per victim.  According to Leadership, the kidnappers have begun contacting families of those taken during Tuesday’s church service. A community leader, Chief Olusegun Olukotun, the Olori Eta of Eruku—who has four relatives among the abducted—confirmed the development on Thursday, 20 November. Olukotun said he was inside the church with five family members when the gunmen invaded. He and one ward managed to escape through a window around 6:06 p.m. He explained that the kidnappers have now grouped the victims based on family ties and are reaching out to relatives one group at a time. He said, “From what we gathered from the kidnappers’ camp, they have grouped the victims according to their relations and are calling people in those groups. Some people in the community have received calls demanding N100 million for each person. As for my own people, I have not received any call yet, so I am still waiting.” The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, 18 November, left five worshippers dead and 38 others abducted, sparking widespread fear and tension across the community.

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Olamide Condemns Rising Insecurity, Urges Unity Amid Kebbi Kidnappings And Kwara Church Attack

Nigerian rapper Olamide has voiced his deep concern over the escalating insecurity in the country in a heartfelt message on Instagram. He wrote: “Our nation has been hit by an alarming wave of one tragedy after another these past few days, and honestly, our hearts are broken. We are struggling to process the devastating attack at the CAC in Kwara, even as we mourn the loss of the AFUED NYSC corps members. Our worry is deep and constant, even as we hear that there have been more abductions. In the face of these heinous acts, our nation must draw upon its strength and unwavering resolve to stand together against those who seek to divide us. We as a people must unite to work and pray together for the safe return of the promising young minds kidnapped in Kebbi. I am sending every ounce of peace and strength to the families grieving, and prayers that all the abducted persons are brought home safely. These tragedies are a painful reminder that the safety and security of Nigerians must never be compromised. The right to life and education is fundamental. This can’t be our reality. Peace should be a certainty, not just a desperate prayer.” Olamide expressed heartbreak over recent tragedies, including the attack on the CAC in Kwara and the deaths of AFUED NYSC corps members, while also highlighting the ongoing abductions of young Nigerians. He urged citizens to stand united, work together, and pray for the safe return of those kidnapped, stressing that the country’s security must remain a priority. He further underscored that these incidents are a reminder that the right to life and education is fundamental, emphasizing that peace should be a guaranteed reality, not just a hope. Extending support to grieving families, Olamide’s message calls for national solidarity, vigilance, and compassion in the face of rising insecurity.

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Kwara Government Shuts Schools In Four LGAs Amid Rising Security Threats

The Kwara State Government has directed the immediate shutdown of schools in four local government areas due to escalating security threats. The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kwara State chapter, confirmed the development on Wednesday. In a circular seen by Channels Television, NUT Chairman Yusuf Agboola said schools in Isin, Irepodun, Ifelodun, and Ekiti LGAs would remain closed until further notice. Agboola explained that the union was acting on instructions from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development following concerns over fresh security risks in Kwara South. “Comrade chairmen, please inform all schools in the specified local governments to close immediately until further notice. This decision responds to the security challenges in the area and the government’s efforts to manage the situation. Treat this notice with urgency as it comes directly from the ministry,” the circular stated. He added that school leaders and teachers would receive further updates as the situation unfolds.

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Davido Condemns Kwara Church Attack, Prays For Victims And Kebbi Schoolgirls

Nigerian singer Davido has expressed profound sorrow following the recent attack on a church in Kwara State, urging Nigerians to unite against the growing wave of violence in the country. Sharing his reaction on X, he also linked the incident to the ongoing abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, calling for immediate action to protect innocent lives. “My heart goes out to the young girls kidnapped in Kebbi State and to their families. No family deserves this pain. As Nigerians, we must stand together in unity and continue working towards a country where every child can grow up in safety and hope,” he wrote. Davido also addressed the tragic attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara, where armed gunmen stormed an evening service. Reports indicate that at least three worshippers were killed and several others, including the pastor, were abducted. Security forces and local vigilantes responded swiftly, forcing the attackers to flee, and soldiers have been deployed to restore calm in the community. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic attack on the church in Kwara State. I pray for the families who lost loved ones and for everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident. These acts of violence must never become our norm,” he said. He urged Nigerians to assist in ongoing rescue efforts, particularly for the kidnapped girls in Kebbi State, emphasizing that credible information could make a crucial difference. “Everything must be done to bring the Kebbi girls home safely. I urge anyone with credible information to come forward in whatever safe and responsible way they can, so it can support ongoing efforts to rescue them,” he added. Davido concluded his statement with a prayer for protection, comfort, and justice: “May God watch over the girls until they return. May He comfort the grieving families in Kwara, bring peace to our nation, and put every sponsor of violence and disorder to shame.” He signed off as David Adeleke OON (Davido), captioning the post with a simple but powerful “💔🇳🇬.” By speaking out, Davido highlights the urgent need for unity, accountability, and safety across Nigeria. His message not only mourns the victims but also calls for collective action to prevent such tragedies and protect vulnerable communities from future attacks.

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