Eight worshippers of the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, remain in captivity after being abducted by armed men, who have reportedly demanded a ransom of N1 billion for their release.
Pastor Toba Omole, the church’s Pastor-in-Charge, told journalists that the victims, including his wife, were taken during a Sunday service when the attackers fired shots into the air, causing panic among congregants.
Omole said the kidnappers made contact with the community on Tuesday, briefly allowing conversations with the captives before stating their ransom demand. “This morning, we were able to hear from those who were abducted. I heard my wife’s voice and those of other members,” he confirmed.
Highlighting the community’s inability to meet the ransom, the pastor appealed to the Kwara State Government and the public for urgent assistance. “This is far beyond what we can afford. We are appealing for help and intervention, including efforts toward negotiation to secure their release,” he said.
Omole also commended the response of security forces, noting that soldiers visited the area after the incident and provided temporary protection to restore calm in the community. “We appreciate the security operatives who came around and stayed with us for some time to ensure calm in the community,” he added.
