Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has revealed that a non-kinetic approach was instrumental in securing the release of 38 worshippers abducted in Kwara State.
The victims were kidnapped from Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State on November 18.
Following the incident, Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), briefed President Tinubu on November 21 regarding the growing security concerns across the country.
On November 23, the President announced that all abductees had regained their freedom, commending the joint efforts of the nation’s security agencies.
“Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued.”
“I am closely monitoring the security situation nationwide and receiving continuous updates from the frontline.
“Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people,” the president announced in a statement.
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However, speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Monday, Onanuga credited the successful operation to the DSS and military, noting that security operatives engaged the kidnappers strategically and established communication channels to secure the victims’ safe release.
“After the incident, the DSS and the military were involved in the rescue effort. They got in contact with the bandits to release the captives unharmed,” he said. “On Sunday, they were able to get them out safely. The security agencies have a way of tracking these people.”
He added that the gunmen understood the consequences of resisting government demands. “They know they could be pummelled,” he said.
Onanuga explained that a direct military assault would have been risky, as the abductors typically use captives as human shields, potentially leading to significant civilian casualties.
“Attacking their base could be risky because you can kill the civilians,” he noted.
He further stated that security authorities would determine the “next line of action” regarding the perpetrators.