Residents of Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have expressed a mix of relief and grief following the return of three abducted worshippers of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Omugo.
The victims, all women including a hearing-impaired widow, were among eight church members kidnapped during a Sunday service on March 22, 2026, when suspected gunmen invaded the church premises.
Their release comes after 105 days in captivity, reportedly facilitated by sustained and coordinated security operations targeting criminal hideouts along the Kwara–Kogi border.
While the community celebrates the safe return of the three women, the joy is overshadowed by the tragic loss of five other victims who did not survive the ordeal.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the President of the Omugo Development Union described the moment as one of “mixed emotions,” noting that although the return of the survivors is a testament to resilience and faith, the pain of those lost remains deeply felt.
“For over three months, the community lived in fear and uncertainty, holding on to hope and offering prayers for the safe return of the victims,” he said. “Today, we are grateful for those who made it back, but we mourn those we lost.”
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He extended condolences to the bereaved families and appreciated the efforts of security agencies, including the police, military, DSS, and local vigilante groups, for their role in securing the release of the captives.
Community leaders also acknowledged the support of traditional rulers, stakeholders, and indigenes at home and abroad who contributed through prayers, funding, and moral support during the crisis.
Meanwhile, local authorities have urged displaced residents to return, assuring that measures have been put in place to enhance security and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
Church leadership confirmed the safe return of the victims and called for continued prayers for their recovery and reintegration.
The incident, which left a lasting scar on the community, underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of the region, even as efforts continue to restore peace and normalcy.
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