Three Kwara Church Abductees Freed After 105 Days in Captivity

Three female worshippers abducted during an attack on an ECWA church in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have regained their freedom after spending 105 days in captivity.

The women were rescued on Monday by a joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, bringing to an end a prolonged ordeal that began with the abduction of eight worshippers during a church service on March 22.

Confirming the development on Tuesday, President of the Omugo Development Union, Prince Oladimeji Ladi Thompson, described the rescue as both a moment of relief and sorrow for the community.

He said the return of the three women was a source of gratitude but noted that the community was still mourning the five worshippers who died while in captivity.

“Today, with grateful hearts, we give all glory to Almighty God because the three remaining mothers in captivity have finally regained their freedom and have been reunited with their families,” Thompson said.

“Even as we celebrate this joyful reunion, our hearts remain heavy with grief as we remember the five precious worshippers who lost their lives in the kidnappers’ den. Their untimely deaths have left painful scars on our hearts and a void that can never truly be filled.”

He extended condolences to the bereaved families, the ECWA Church in Omugo and the entire community, praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the tragedy.

Thompson also commended the security agencies involved in the rescue operation for their efforts.

The worshippers were kidnapped when gunmen stormed the ECWA church during a Sunday worship service and took eight congregants into the forest, sparking widespread concern and efforts to secure their release.

Five of the abductees, including the wife of the church’s minister, Rev. Timothy Omole, later died in captivity despite attempts by their families and the community to negotiate their freedom.

The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N1 billion, but the amount was reportedly reduced during negotiations.

Community members were said to have raised about N20 million and also supplied food items and other materials requested by the abductors, but the five victims did not survive.

Thompson paid tribute to the Oloro of Oro Ago, the Olomugo of Omugo and members of the traditional council for their support and leadership throughout the period of uncertainty.

He also appreciated sons and daughters of Omugo at home and in the diaspora for their financial assistance, prayers and solidarity during the 105-day ordeal.

The community leader appealed to residents who fled the area because of insecurity to return, assuring them that measures had been put in place to improve the safety of lives and property.

He further urged members of the community to sustain the unity shown during the crisis and continue supporting efforts to rebuild Omugo.