Eight worshippers, including the pastor’s wife, were seized during church service in Ifelodun amid growing insecurity in Kwara State
Gunmen have demanded a ₦1 billion ransom for eight worshippers abducted during a church service in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, in the latest in a string of kidnapping incidents that have put the state under renewed scrutiny.
The victims were seized on Sunday at the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) after attackers reportedly fired shots into the air, triggering panic among congregants before whisking them away. Among those abducted is the wife of the church’s pastor-in-charge, Toba Omole.
Speaking to journalists, Omole confirmed that the kidnappers made contact on Tuesday, allowing brief communication with the captives before issuing their demand.
“This morning, we were able to hear from those who were abducted. I heard my wife’s voice and those of other members,” he said, adding that eight people remain in captivity.
“About eight of them are still in captivity, and the kidnappers have demanded ₦1 billion for their release.”
The incident adds to growing concerns over a recent wave of abductions across Kwara State, where communities have increasingly reported similar attacks targeting residents, commuters, and now places of worship.
Omole appealed to the state government and the public for urgent intervention, stressing that the ransom demand is far beyond what the community can raise.
“This is far beyond what we can afford. We are appealing for help and intervention, including efforts toward negotiation to secure their release,” he said.
While acknowledging the initial response of security personnel—who visited the area and provided temporary protection—the cleric called for a sustained deployment, noting that fear remains high as the victims are still being held.
Residents in Ifelodun and surrounding areas have also urged authorities to intensify security operations, warning that the recurring nature of such incidents is deepening anxiety and eroding confidence in safety across the state.
