Panic erupted on Sunday morning in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, as suspected bandits invaded an ECWA Church during service and abducted several worshippers.
The attackers reportedly stormed the church premises while the service was ongoing, causing chaos and fear among congregants and nearby residents. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the assailants forcefully took multiple individuals before fleeing the scene.
However, a swift response by joint security operatives led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of others still in captivity.
A source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch disclosed that at least seven persons were initially abducted during the incident, although full details are still emerging.
Confirming the development, the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, commended the coordinated intervention of security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which helped repel the attackers and secure the rescue of some victims.
She assured residents that the government has directed security agencies to intensify operations aimed at rescuing the remaining abductees and apprehending those responsible for the attack.
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The commissioner strongly condemned the targeting of a place of worship, describing it as cowardly and unacceptable, and reiterated the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
She also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities, noting that ongoing forest combing operations have already begun to yield positive results in curbing criminal activities in affected areas.
Security concerns in Kwara South have heightened in recent days following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks across Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.
The Coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, had earlier warned residents not to take the threat lightly, stating that military and paramilitary personnel, alongside air surveillance, have been deployed to prevent further attacks.
Authorities have reassured the public of sustained collaboration with all security stakeholders to restore peace and ensure the safety of communities across the state.
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