In a tragic turn of events, terrorists have killed five of the eight worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state. The revelation came from an escaped abductee, according to a report by Vanguard on Wednesday evening, June 3.
The attack occurred in March 2026 during a weekly service, when suspected bandits invaded the church and kidnapped worshippers. Despite prior deployment of military and paramilitary units with air surveillance, the assailants succeeded in their operation.
Community Paid Ransom but Victims Were Killed
The community had reportedly paid N20 million and provided goods worth over N300,000, yet the abductors refused to release the victims and demanded an additional N300 million ransom. Reverend Sunday Omole, the minister-in-charge of ECWA Omugo in Oro-Ago, had earlier appealed to the federal government for help.
In a new update, Rev. Omole expressed deep pain as he confirmed the deaths of five worshippers, including his wife, Mrs. Rachel Oluwaremilekun Omole. The deceased are Elder Chief David Omopariola, Chief Joseph Ibitoye Afariogun, Mrs. Iyabo Aniyi, Elder Joshua Akanbi Adeyemi, and Mrs. Rachel Oluwaremilekun Omole.
Escapee Brings Grim News
The escaped victim, Mr. Sunday Bakare, who was abducted over a month ago, brought the news that only three of the eight captives remain with the kidnappers. The other five have been killed. The three remaining worshippers are in critical condition, while Mr. Bakare is receiving medical attention at a private hospital in Omu-Aran.
Rev. Omole's statement urged the church to find comfort in faith, quoting John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." He added, "Heaven is our home and Gain."
Rising Insecurity in Kwara State
The incident in Omugo is part of a wave of violent attacks across Kwara state, including in Kaiama, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas, which have left several people dead and displaced hundreds. In early February, attacks in Woro and Nuku communities resulted in over 176 deaths and multiple abductions. Residents of Omugo and surrounding communities have expressed fear and frustration.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's administration faces mounting pressure as insecurity worsens. The Kwara State Police Command, led by spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, had earlier confirmed the rescue of three victims unhurt, describing it as a swift and coordinated response.
Broader Context of Insecurity in Nigeria
In a related incident, bandits killed at least 17 people, including seven visitors for Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, in Dangulbi community, Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto state. The attackers, numbering in the hundreds and riding motorcycles, fired indiscriminately, looted shops, and forced villagers to flee. Residents reported that the bandits remained in the community, preventing funeral rites.
The persistent attacks underscore the security challenges facing Nigeria, with communities often left to negotiate with kidnappers despite ransom payments. The ECWA Omugo tragedy highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and government intervention to protect citizens from terrorist activities.
