‘Why We Didn’t Arrest the Bandits After Rescuing 38 Worshippers’ — IG Egbetokun Tell Nigerians (Video)

• IG Kayode Egbetokun explained that the 38 Kwara worshippers were freed without any arrests because the abductors voluntarily participated in peace talks.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has explained why none of the bandits who abducted 38 worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, were arrested following their release, saying the attackers “came out voluntarily for the peace talk.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Sunday, November 23, 2025, that all 38 victims kidnapped from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Isegun, in Eruku had regained freedom. The worshippers were abducted on November 18 during a thanksgiving service, shortly after 18 previously kidnapped members of the congregation had returned home.

During the attack, the terrorists stormed the church, took 38 people hostage—including the pastor—and killed three worshippers. The abduction drew nationwide outrage, especially after reports emerged that the bandits demanded ₦100 million per victim, totaling ₦3.8 billion.

Confirming the release, President Tinubu said he had cancelled his planned trip to the G20 Summit in South Africa to coordinate security operations aimed at securing the victims’ safe return.

However, the subsequent revelation that no arrests were made raised public concern. Addressing reporters, IG Kayode Egbetokun said the bandits were not detained because they willingly came forward to participate in negotiations.

“We didn’t arrest the bandits because they came out voluntarily for the peace talk,” he said.

DON’T MISS: How I Personally Coordinated the Operation and Rescue of the 38 Abducted Christian Worshippers — Tinubu

The explanation has stirred debate among Nigerians, with many questioning the broader implications of allowing armed criminals to walk free after such a deadly and traumatic incident for the community.

Meanwhile, residents of Eruku have expressed relief as families reunite with their loved ones. Actress Bukola Arugba, who hails from the town, shared an emotional message celebrating the victims’ safe return.

Watch video below:

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