The anguish of families affected by the February 3, 2026 attack in Kwara State continues to deepen, as kidnappers reportedly rejected a ransom of N155 million raised for the release of their loved ones.
The tragic incident, which occurred in Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, left over 260 residents dead, more than 30 houses destroyed, and about 176 people abducted when heavily armed assailants stormed the area.
Five months after the attack, families say all efforts to secure the victims’ freedom have failed. Speaking on behalf of the affected families, community representative Alhaji Abdul Ibrahim revealed that despite raising the huge sum demanded by the kidnappers, it was turned down.
According to him, the abductors insisted the amount was insufficient, leaving families stranded and without further communication regarding the fate of those still in captivity.
“We gathered N155 million and delivered it as requested, but they refused to accept it, claiming it was not enough. Since then, we have not heard anything about our relatives,” Ibrahim said, adding that he personally lost 10 family members and still has 35 others in captivity.
He appealed to both the Federal Government and the Kwara State Government to urgently intervene, noting that the families have exhausted all possible means.
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The situation is further complicated by Nigerian law, which criminalizes the payment of ransom, putting families in a difficult position as they struggle to save their loved ones.
Community leaders have also expressed frustration over what they described as unequal response efforts, pointing out that victims of a separate kidnapping incident in neighboring Oyo State were successfully rescued, while those from Woro and Nuku remain in captivity.
Another leader, Alhaji Sulaiman Bukata, disclosed that residents recently staged a peaceful protest to demand urgent government action.
He also raised concerns over threats allegedly made by the kidnappers, including forcing some abducted young women into marriage and killing others if no intervention occurs—claims that are yet to be independently verified.
Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing the area in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Sa’idu Baba Ahmed, has called on the Federal Government to intensify rescue operations, stressing that the prolonged delay is worsening the suffering of affected families.
As uncertainty lingers, families continue to wait in despair, hoping for swift action that will bring their loved ones home safely.
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