Tension rose in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State on Wednesday after angry youths blocked the Ilorin–Kabba highway to protest a deadly bandit attack on their community.
Gunmen had stormed Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Isegun, during an evening service on Tuesday, killing three people and abducting at least ten worshippers. A young girl who sustained gunshot injuries was reported to be in critical condition.
The attack sparked a mass protest, with youths barricading the Kwara–Kogi highway early Wednesday, using logs, tyres and planks to halt traffic while demanding stronger security.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. during a church programme. Residents said the attackers approached from the outskirts of the town and opened fire, forcing worshippers to scatter for safety.
Protesters at the scene said the blockade was intended to compel authorities to act. One youth said the community had endured repeated attacks and wanted permanent security presence. Another resident said families were now living in constant fear of another invasion.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the killings. Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said officers and vigilantes responded swiftly after hearing gunshots, causing the attackers to flee into the bush. She said two victims were found—one fatally shot inside the church and another discovered in the bush. A vigilante member also sustained gunshot injuries.
She added that efforts were ongoing to track down the attackers and restore confidence in the area.
In response to the attack and the unrest, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq condemned the incident and ordered security agencies to reinforce deployment in Eruku and other vulnerable communities in the local government area. His spokesperson, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the governor directed that the new deployment take immediate effect and expressed sympathy to affected families.
The governor also noted the recent approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the posting of 900 additional troops to the state, adding that the increased presence had helped stabilise previously troubled areas.
Eruku and surrounding settlements have suffered repeated attacks in recent months. Residents say the lack of a permanent security presence along the Kwara–Kogi boundary leaves many communities exposed.
A youth leader at the protest said people could no longer live under constant threats and warned that residents would continue leaving their homes if nothing changed.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the blockade remained, with protesters insisting they would not leave the highway until authorities provided firm assurances of improved security.
