The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has welcomed the release of the 38 abducted worshippers from the Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, but insisted that the development exposes deeper security lapses in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Ilorin, the party’s spokesman, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, expressed gratitude for the victims’ safe return and commended the efforts of security agencies and local vigilantes who worked to secure their freedom.
“We join the families, the Eruku community and all well-meaning Kwarans in thanking God for their safe return,” Adewara said. “We also commend the courage and tireless efforts of security agencies, particularly the local vigilantes who played a crucial role.”
However, the PDP stressed that the successful rescue should not overshadow what it described as “persistent security failures” that made the attack possible. The party criticised the state government’s silence on key details surrounding the victims’ release.
According to the statement, “The safe return of abducted citizens does not erase the security lapses that allowed this heinous attack. None of the perpetrators have been arrested or publicly identified, and this raises serious concerns.”
The party demanded answers on whether any of the attackers were apprehended or neutralised, warning that celebrating the release of hostages without holding criminals accountable amounted to “negotiating a temporary ceasefire with terrorists.”
It further questioned whether a ransom was paid, and if so, whether public funds were involved, insisting that the government owes citizens full transparency. The PDP also asked for information on the condition of the victims, the support being provided for their rehabilitation, and the preventive measures put in place to avoid future attacks.
“Security is not measured by how many abductees are released,” the party argued, “but by how many criminals are arrested, prosecuted and prevented from striking again.”
It maintained that while the return of the Eruku 38 brings relief, it does not constitute a victory for the government. “A true victory,” the PDP stated, “would be the arrest and prosecution of the masterminds and the implementation of a proactive security strategy that prevents such incidents entirely.”
