Kwara: Abducted worshippers regain freedom after 105 days in captivity

Three abducted female worshippers who were among those kidnapped during the March 22 attack on ECWA Church, Omugo, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have regained their freedom. This is after spending 105 days in captivity. They were said to have been rescued by a joint team of security operatives comprising personnel of […]

Three abducted female worshippers who were among those kidnapped during the March 22 attack on ECWA Church, Omugo, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have regained their freedom.

This is after spending 105 days in captivity.

They were said to have been rescued by a joint team of security operatives comprising personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and vigilantes on Monday.

Their rescue marks the end of a months-long ordeal that plunged the Omugo community into mourning and uncertainty following the abduction of eight worshippers during a Sunday service.

President of the Omugo Development Union, Prince Oladimeji Ladi Thompson, confirm the incident on Tuesday.

He described the day as one of “mixed emotions” for the community.

While celebrating the return of the three women to their families, Thompson said the community remained heartbroken over the five worshippers who lost their lives 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,” he 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 said.

The community leader extended condolences to the bereaved families, ECWA Church, Omugo and the entire community, praying for divine comfort for those affected by the tragedy.

He also thanked the security agencies.

The worshippers were abducted on March 22 when armed men invaded ECWA Church during a worship service and whisked away eight congregants into the forest.

The incident triggered widespread outrage and frantic efforts to secure their release.

Daily Trust had reported that five of the abductees, including the wife of the church’s minister, Rev. Timothy Omole, died in captivity after months in the kidnappers’ den despite efforts by families and the community to secure their freedom.

The abductors had initially demanded a N1 billion ransom, which was later reduced during negotiations.

Community members were said to have raised about N20 million and provided food items and other supplies demanded by the kidnappers, but the five victims never returned alive.

He also paid tribute to the Oloro of Oro Ago, the Olomugo of Omugo and members of the traditional council for providing leadership, encouragement and support to affected families throughout the ordeal.

The Omugo Development Union president equally appreciated the sons and daughters of the community at home and in the diaspora for their financial support, prayers and solidarity during the 105-day crisis.

He urged residents who had fled the community over insecurity to return home, assuring them that measures had been put in place to safeguard lives and property.

Thompson also called on members of the community to sustain the unity demonstrated during the crisis and continue supporting efforts aimed at rebuilding and developing Omugo.