Residents of Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have expressed a mixture of relief and grief following the return of three worshippers who regained their freedom after spending 105 days in captivity.
The victims, all women, were among eight members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Omugo, who were abducted by suspected kidnappers during a Sunday worship service on March 22, 2026. While five of the abducted worshippers reportedly died in captivity, the remaining three were rescued after sustained security operations targeted criminal hideouts along the Kwara-Kogi border.
The President of the Omugo Development Union, Oladimeji Thompson, described the return of the women as a moment of thanksgiving despite the painful memories left by the tragedy.
According to him, the entire community had endured more than three months of uncertainty, fear and continuous prayers, refusing to give up hope that the captives would eventually regain their freedom.
He noted that while the successful rescue was a source of joy, the community remained heartbroken over the five worshippers who lost their lives while in the custody of their abductors.
Thompson extended condolences to the bereaved families, the ECWA church and the entire Omugo community, praying that God would comfort those mourning their loved ones.
He also commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces and local vigilante groups, for their coordinated efforts that led to the victims’ release. He further appreciated traditional rulers, community leaders and Omugo indigenes at home and abroad for their financial support, prayers and unwavering solidarity throughout the ordeal.
Calling on displaced residents to return to the community, Thompson assured them that necessary measures had been put in place to guarantee the safety of lives and property.
The Joint Security Watch in Kwara South disclosed that the women regained their freedom after security forces intensified operations against suspected kidnappers operating within forests bordering Kwara and Kogi states, forcing the criminals to abandon several captives.
Also confirming the development, the pastor in charge of ECWA Omugo, Rev. Sunday Omole, said the church had received the three women safely and appealed to Christians to continue praying for their physical and emotional recovery after the traumatic experience.
