Gunmen demand N1bn ransom for eight abducted church members in Kwara

Gunmen who kidnapped worshippers during a Sunday service at an Evangelical Church of West Africa in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have reportedly asked for a ransom of N1bn to free the victims.

The church’s Pastor-in-Charge, Toba Omole, revealed this while speaking with journalists on Wednesday.

He confirmed that eight congregants, including his wife, are still being held several days after the abduction.

According to him, the kidnappers made contact with the community on Tuesday.

During the communication, relatives were briefly allowed to speak with those in captivity before the ransom demand was made.

“This morning, we were able to hear from those who were abducted. I heard my wife’s voice and those of other members,” Omole said.

“About eight of them are still in captivity, and the kidnappers have demanded N1 billion for their release.”

Omole described the ransom as completely beyond what the affected families and the rural community can afford, urging the government and concerned Nigerians to step in urgently.

“This is far beyond what we can afford. We are appealing for help and intervention, including efforts toward negotiation to secure their release,” he added.

The attack, which happened during a church service on Sunday, has disrupted life in Omugo. Many residents have reportedly fled their homes due to fear of further attacks and what they see as insufficient security presence.

By Monday, the community showed clear signs of mass displacement, with several houses abandoned and families relocating their belongings to safer areas.

Meanwhile, tension continues to rise as residents seek improved security and swift action to tackle the growing threat of banditry in the region.

In a related incident, suspected bandits allegedly launched another attack on Oro-Ago, a neighbouring community within the same Ifelodun Local Government Area, on Wednesday evening. During the assault, a vigilante commander was killed, while another security operative sustained serious injuries.

The coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, Elder Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, confirmed the development on Wednesday night.

Reports indicate that the attackers invaded the community, killing the local vigilante leader and shooting the town’s chief security officer, known as the Olu-òde, identified as Odeyemi.

“The vigilante commander was killed during the attack, while the Olu-òde sustained gunshot injuries,” the coordinator stated.

Residents say the latest violence has intensified fear across nearby communities already shaken by the earlier abduction in Omugo.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kwara State Police Command had not released an official statement regarding the incidents.

The renewed attacks highlight increasing security challenges in the area, with locals calling for stronger security presence to prevent further violence and restore a sense of safety.