Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Anxiety has gripped Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State following the abduction of eight worshippers by gunmen, who are demanding a ransom of N1 billion for their release.
The victims were seized during a Sunday service at the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA), when armed attackers stormed the premises, fired gunshots to disperse congregants, and abducted the worshippers, including the wife of the church’s Pastor-in-Charge, Toba Omole.
Residents said fear has since enveloped the community, as families of the victims await their fate with growing concern.
Confirming the development, Pastor Omole said the kidnappers contacted the community on Tuesday, briefly allowing the captives to speak before issuing their demand.
“We were able to hear their voices, including my wife’s. They are still in captivity, and the kidnappers are demanding N1 billion,” he said.
He described the situation as overwhelming, noting that the community lacks the financial capacity to meet such a demand.
“We are helpless. This amount is beyond us. We are appealing to the government and well-meaning Nigerians to come to our aid and help secure their release,” he pleaded.
While acknowledging the intervention of security operatives who visited the area after the attack, Omole stressed the need for sustained security presence to reassure residents and prevent further attacks.
The incident has again raised concerns over the safety of worship centres and the growing insecurity in parts of the state, with residents calling on authorities to step up efforts to rescue the victims and restore confidence in the affected community.
