The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has reacted to the release of 38 abducted worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, calling it a moment of relief for the families and communities affected — but also a reminder of the state’s deepening security concerns.
In a statement issued by its State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party commended the efforts of security agents and local vigilantes whose persistence, according to the PDP, played a central role in securing the safe return of the victims.
However, the party expressed strong dissatisfaction with what it described as “glaring silence” from the state government on key details surrounding the rescue operation.
PDP Questions Silence on Arrests, Ransom and Security Gaps
The opposition party noted that while the safe return of the victims brings comfort, it does not automatically address the security failures that made the attack possible.
The PDP raised several questions it believes the government must answer:
- Were any of the attackers arrested or neutralized?
The party argued that celebrating the release of victims without any word on the fate of the perpetrators leaves room for more attacks. - Was ransom paid, and from what source?
The party insisted that Kwarans deserve clear answers, especially if public funds were involved. - What is the condition of the victims?
According to the PDP, the government must demonstrate what support—medical, psychological, and financial—it plans to provide to help the victims recover. - What preventive measures are being put in place?
The party emphasized that the cycle of attacks will continue unless the government adopts stronger, long-term security strategies.
Criticism of First Lady’s Comments
The statement also took aim at the First Lady of Kwara State, Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, accusing her of attempting to downplay the incident by allegedly describing it as an “attempted” attack.
“The release of 38 abducted persons has made it obvious that this was no ‘attempt,’” the PDP said, adding that such comments risk undermining the suffering endured by the victims and their families.
Concerns Over Governor’s Reliance on Federal Intervention
The PDP further criticised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s statement, which credited President Bola Tinubu with facilitating the rescue. The party questioned why the governor, as the state’s chief security officer, appears unable to respond effectively to security crises without federal intervention.
“It raises concerns about whether the state leadership still has a firm grip on its primary constitutional responsibilities,” the statement reads.
“Not a Victory for Governance”
While acknowledging the emotional relief brought by the victims’ return, the PDP insisted that the development does not signify a triumph for the state government.
“A true victory,” Adewara said, “would be the arrest of the perpetrators and the unveiling of a robust security plan that prevents any repeat of this tragedy.”
The party urged the state government to provide full transparency on the episode and take concrete steps to restore public confidence in the security of communities across Kwara.
Signed:
Olusegun Olusola Adewara
State Publicity Secretary, Kwara PDP
25 November 2025.
