The Gunmen who abducted worshippers during a church service in Kwara State have demanded a ₦1 billion ransom for the release of five victims still in captivity.
The victims, members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), were kidnapped in Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, sparking fear across the Oro-Ago axis.
Three of the eight initially abducted worshippers have since regained freedom, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining victims.
The church’s pastor, Reverend Omole Timothy, said the abductors contacted community leaders and insisted that the ransom be raised collectively by communities in Oro-Ago.
According to him, attempts to negotiate a lower amount have failed, with the kidnappers rejecting an offer of ₦1 million and warning against further negotiations involving smaller sums.
“They told us not to talk about ₦20 million, ₦50 million, or even ₦100 million,” the cleric said, adding that communication was abruptly cut off after the last contact.
He also revealed that he briefly spoke with his wife, who is among those abducted, alongside other victims.
“They said they are thirsty.
No one was seriously injured, except an elderly man who was hit on the head,” he added.
The incident has heightened tension in Ifelodun LGA, with residents calling on the Kwara State Government and security agencies to act swiftly to secure the victims’ safe release.
The attack is the latest in a series of kidnappings targeting rural communities and places of worship, raising fresh concerns over security in the region.
