The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed happiness over the release of the 38 worshippers kidnapped from the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku.
In a statement on Sunday, the party’s spokesman, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, said they were grateful to God and to the security agencies especially local vigilantes whose efforts led to the victims’ safe return.
However, the PDP said the release of the victims does not erase the fact that there were serious security lapses that allowed the attack to happen. The party criticised the state government for not giving clear information on how the victims were freed.
The PDP questioned whether any of the kidnappers were arrested or neutralised, noting that celebrating the return of victims without capturing their abductors was like “negotiating a temporary peace with criminals.”
The opposition party also asked whether any ransom was paid, and if public money was used. They said the government must be transparent and provide full details.
They further demanded updates about the victims’ health, the support being provided for their recovery, and what steps have been taken to prevent another attack.
According to the party, true security is not measured by how many abductees are released but by how many criminals are arrested, prosecuted, and stopped from striking again.
The statement added that while the safe return of the Eruku 38 brings relief, it is not a sign of successful governance. A real victory, the PDP said, would be the arrest of the criminals and a strong security plan that prevents future kidnappings.
