RESIDENTS of Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have welcomed the return of the three remaining worshippers of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Omugo, who regained their freedom after spending 105 days in captivity.
The women, including a hearing-impaired widow, were among eight worshippers abducted by suspected kidnappers during a church service on March 22, 2026.
While five of the victims reportedly died in captivity, the remaining three were rescued following a coordinated security operation targeting kidnappers operating in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border.
Reacting to the development, President of the Omugo Development Union, Oladimeji Thompson, described the women’s return as a moment of both joy and sorrow.
He expressed gratitude for their safe release while mourning the five worshippers who lost their lives during the ordeal.
Thompson said the community endured 105 days of fear, uncertainty and constant prayers but never gave up hope that the captives would return safely. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of those who died.
He also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces, local vigilante groups and other security personnel for their efforts in securing the victims’ release.
Traditional rulers, community leaders and Omugo indigenes at home and abroad were equally lauded for their support, prayers and financial contributions throughout the crisis.
Urging displaced residents to return home, Thompson assured them that measures had been put in place to guarantee the safety of lives and property.
The Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, attributed the victims’ release to sustained military pressure on kidnappers during coordinated operations carried out by security agencies in the Kwara-Kogi border forests.
Confirming the development, the pastor of ECWA Omugo, Rev. Sunday Omole, said the church had received the three women and appealed for prayers for their full recovery after their prolonged captivity.
As of the time of filing the report, the Kwara State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.
