The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) at Oke Isegun in Eruku, Kwara State, returned to its sanctuary for a solemn Sunday service, nearly a week after a deadly bandit attack that left three people dead and 38 worshippers abducted.
The mood in the large church was somber, with only around 30 congregants present an atmosphere of quiet prayer and reflection rather than celebration.
Last Tuesday’s raid by armed assailants shattered the calm of the congregation, scattering fear among those present. In the wake of that violence, the Sunday gathering was dominated by heartfelt supplications, as members prayed intensely for the safe return of their friends and loved ones who remain in captivity. They also remembered in prayer those who lost their lives, asking for God’s comfort for their families.
During his sermon, Pastor Bamidele Lawrence called the ordeal “a test of faith.” He said he had received a spiritual assurance that the kidnapped would be kept safe. Drawing parallels with the biblical story of the Israelites, he sought to frame the church’s suffering as part of a divine trial that would ultimately strengthen their trust in God.
Pastor Lawrence also spoke of the three who were killed in deeply spiritual terms: “They are at the feet of Jesus Christ,” he said, urging the congregation to take courage. He reminded them that those who die for their faith testify to their relationship with God, and he expressed his belief that justice will come: “The blood of those who were killed will cry for justice, and God’s judgment will come on them.”
One of the worshippers, named James Ige, made a personal and urgent appeal during the service. His wife and son are among the kidnapped, and he pleaded with security agencies to step up their efforts. “My family’s fate depends on swift government action,” he said, underscoring the emotional strain on those with loved ones still in captivity.
Church Secretary Michael Agbabiaka clarified some earlier confusion over the number of abductees. While initial reports had suggested more than 60 people were taken, his records now show that 38 individuals are captive, including three non-members who were also seized. He added that the kidnappers originally demanded a ransom of ₦100 million per person, but later reduced it to ₦20 million each before communication suddenly ceased. Despite the trauma, the church leadership encouraged members to come to the service, as a sign of resilience and unwavering faith.
