The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that suspected bandits launched a deadly attack in Eruku, a border community in the Ekiti Local Government Area, killing two people and injuring one during an assault on a parish of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
The incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
Police spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, in a statement on Tuesday night, said officers responded immediately after hearing gunshots from the outskirts of the town.
“On receiving the distress call, the DPO Eruku and his team, working with local vigilantes, moved swiftly to the scene, forcing the hoodlums to flee into the bush,” the statement said.
She confirmed that one worshipper, identified as Mr. Aderemi, was shot dead inside the church, while another victim, Mr. Tunde Asaba Ajayi, was later found lifeless in the nearby bush.
A vigilante member, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to ECWA Hospital, Eruku, for treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, praised the rapid response of security operatives and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to track down the attackers.
He vowed that security agencies “will not relent until these hoodlums are completely eliminated.”
Worshippers Also Abducted During Church Service
PUNCH Online earlier reported that the bandits stormed the CAC parish during a special service, opening fire on the congregation before abducting the pastor and several worshippers.
An eyewitness revealed:
“The gunmen came into the church while people were gathered. Three people died instantly. They later rounded up some worshippers, including the pastor, and marched them into the bush.”
Attack Spreads to Ilorin–Kabba Highway
The attackers later blocked a section of the Ilorin–Kabba Road, forcing travellers to abandon their vehicles and flee.
A commuter returning from Niger State said in a voice note:
“Two people were killed instantly. We don’t even know how many were taken. They are still shooting — you can hear it.”
Community Cries Out for Help
Residents say Eruku and surrounding areas have suffered repeated attacks over the past three weeks.
Community leader Mr. Benjamin Ayeoribe said:
“We are living in fear every day. We have begged the government for help, but nothing concrete has been done. We need federal intervention urgently.”
Kwara State has witnessed a worrying surge in banditry, kidnappings, and killings in recent months, particularly in communities close to state borders.
Credit: Punch News
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