An emotional atmosphere filled Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State as 146 residents who were abducted by bandits nearly seven months ago finally reunited with their families.
The victims were among about 170 villagers abducted when armed bandits invaded the community on February 3, killing several residents and taking others away.
After regaining their freedom about three weeks earlier, the 146 victims were reportedly taken to a private facility in Ilorin, where they received medical care and psychosocial support before being returned to their community.
Residents trooped out in celebration as vehicles conveying the freed victims arrived in Kaiama. Families broke down in tears while others sang and danced as they welcomed their loved ones home.
The reunion took place at the palace of the Emir of Kaiama, where families were reunited, including mothers and babies reportedly born during the period of captivity.
Inside Kwara state:
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The Kwara State Government also announced ₦80 million in financial support to assist the victims with their reintegration, with individual beneficiaries expected to receive between ₦200,000 and ₦1 million.
Despite the celebrations, concerns remain over villagers who are still being held by their captors. The Woro Village Head, whose wife and daughter were among those rescued, appealed for urgent efforts to secure the release of the remaining 13 victims.
Many of the survivors are also returning home to painful memories after losing husbands, fathers and other relatives during the attack.
The community now faces the task of rebuilding as the freed victims begin their recovery from months of captivity, trauma and personal loss.
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