The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that two people were killed and one injured after suspected bandits carried out attacks in Eruku, a boundary town in the Ekiti Local Government Area. One of the attacks targeted a parish of the Christ Apostolic Church.
According to the police, a worshipper was shot dead inside the church, while another victim’s body was later discovered in the bush. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the attack occurred around 6 p.m. on Monday.
She stated that the Divisional Police Officer in Eruku, along with police operatives and vigilantes, responded to gunshots from the outskirts of the town, forcing the attackers to flee into the forest.
The statement identified the victims as Mr. Aderemi, who was killed inside the church, and Mr. Tunde Asaba Ajayi, whose body was recovered in the bush. A vigilante, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment at ECWA Hospital in Eruku.
The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, commended the quick response of the security team and assured residents that efforts to track down the gunmen would continue until they are neutralized.
Earlier reports indicated that the gunmen stormed the church during a special service, opened fire on worshippers, and abducted the pastor along with several congregants. An eyewitness said three people died immediately during the church attack.
Shortly after, the attackers reportedly launched another assault along the Ilorin–Kabba Road, forcing travellers to abandon their vehicles. A returning traveller said the gunmen shot repeatedly and killed two people instantly.
Residents of Eruku say the community has suffered multiple attacks over the past three weeks. Community leader Benjamin Ayeoribe appealed for urgent federal intervention, noting that local efforts have been overwhelmed.
Kwara State has recorded a surge in banditry, killings, and kidnappings in recent months, particularly in communities located near state borders.
Nigerian’s Reactions:
It’s true. The village is after Egbe coming into Kwara. Very close to where Gen (Oba) Aremu 22 RC was killed 2 yrs ago. Those in Govt knows what to do. Leave them to continue the way of PMB. They will see the results. They are busy receiving defectors from other party and neglecting security. Are we still relevant in their scheme of things. Let’s ask ourselves. Papers were presented and solutions were proffered and nothing was done. We pray that our prayers are answered. Look at the way Gen Musa Uba was assasinated/killed by ISWAP. Nothing has happened in that general area since last week
