Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga says a non-kinetic, negotiation-driven strategy was key to securing the release of 38 worshippers kidnapped from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State, on November 18.

The victims’ abduction had drawn national concern, prompting a security briefing on November 21 by Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), who updated President Bola Tinubu on the wave of insecurity across the country.

Two days later, President Tinubu announced that all the abducted worshippers had been freed, praising the security forces for their efforts.

“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,” the president said. “Every Nigerian has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation.”

Although neither the presidency nor the military initially disclosed the method used in the rescue or whether any ransom was paid, Onanuga offered new details on Monday.

He said the DSS and the military took charge of the operation and made direct contact with the kidnappers, warning them of the consequences of refusing to cooperate.

“They got in touch with the bandits and demanded the release of the captives unharmed,” he explained. “The bandits know the consequences of not acquiescing to government demands. They knew they could be pummelled.”

According to Onanuga, security agencies relied on intelligence tracking and strategic engagement to avoid bloodshed. He said a full military assault was ruled out because abductors often use victims as human shields, increasing the risk of civilian casualties.

“Attacking their base could be risky because you can kill the civilians,” he said.

Onanuga added that while the worshippers are now safe, the military will determine the appropriate next steps regarding the kidnappers.