Fresh Abductions in Kwara, Kano Overshadow Rescue of Kebbi Schoolgirls, Eruku Worshippers
The celebrations following the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State have been short-lived, as armed bandits launched fresh attacks in Kwara and Kano just hours after the presidency hailed improved security operations.
Barely a day after the federal government announced the release of 38 captives from the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku — a victory credited to “pressure from the DSS and the military” — gunmen returned to the same local government to abduct more residents.
Isapa Attack: Bandits Strike Again, 5km From Eruku
On Monday evening, assailants stormed Isapa, a community in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, located about five kilometres from Eruku where the earlier rescue took place.
Local sources said the armed men moved with a large herd of cattle to blend into the environment before launching the attack. The Kwara State Police Command confirmed 10 abductees, but community leaders insist the number is closer to 20, including children, nursing mothers, and a pregnant woman.
“The bandits went after a businessman who had previously paid ransom. When they couldn’t find him, they took his family and neighbours instead,”
— Abayomi Daramola, community leader
Kano, Niger Also Hit as Wave of Abductions Spreads
The insecurity ripple extended to Kano State, where gunmen abducted 10 residents in Tsanyawa Local Government Area on Monday night. Locals believe the incident is linked to bandit activity spilling over from neighbouring Katsina State.
Meanwhile, in Niger State, tension persists over the abduction of more than 265 students of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri. Their situation contrasts sharply with the joyful reunification of Kebbi victims, highlighting the uneven outcomes of security interventions across the country.
A Win, Then a Setback
President Bola Tinubu had earlier praised security agencies for the rescue of the Kebbi schoolgirls and Kwara worshippers, but the latest attacks have muted national relief and raised concerns over the sustainability of recent gains in the fight against kidnapping and rural banditry.
