Two Killed in Eruku Bandit Attack as Security Concerns Rise in Kwara
Tragedy struck Eruku, a border town in the Ekiti Local Government Area, when suspected bandits attacked the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, killing two people. The assault occurred on Tuesday evening, with gunmen reportedly storming the outskirts of the town heavily armed.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as sudden and terrifying, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
“They came around nightfall and began shooting. Two people were killed immediately, and we don’t even know how many were taken,” a local resident said.
Another resident highlighted that Eruku has faced repeated attacks over the past three weeks, despite multiple distress calls to local and state authorities. “We live in constant fear. We’ve asked for help, but nothing concrete has been done,” he lamented.
Community efforts, including vigilante groups and the Eruku Progressive Union, have tried to resist the bandits, but recent events have intensified fears about growing insecurity. “Federal intervention is needed. These attacks are becoming unbearable,” an elder pleaded.
Police Response and Casualties
The police responded swiftly, forcing the attackers to flee. According to SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, Police Public Relations Officer, one male victim, Mr. Aderemi, was found fatally shot inside the church, while Mr. Tunde Asaba Ajayi was discovered dead in a nearby bush. A vigilante, Segun Alaja, sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to ECWA Hospital, Eruku, for treatment.
Government Condemnation and Security Measures
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq condemned the attack and called for urgent reinforcement of security in the area. His office confirmed that additional security operatives are being deployed to strengthen protection for residents.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and the Christ Apostolic Church community, pledging continued support for security agencies. He also commended President Bola Tinubu for deploying 900 additional troops to Kwara, noting that the reinforcement is expected to deter future attacks and restore calm.
The attack in Eruku adds to growing concerns about banditry in Kwara’s border communities. Authorities have promised stronger measures to restore peace and protect lives and property.
This incident comes just days after gunmen abducted 26 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi State, during which the Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Makuku, was reportedly killed. Two of the girls have since been freed.
