Eight members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) were kidnapped during a church service in Omugo community, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State, and their captors are now demanding a staggering ₦1 billion for their release. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local communities, leaving residents anxious and calling for urgent government intervention.
The kidnappers reportedly contacted church and community leaders soon after the incident, insisting that the ransom be collected from all surrounding communities. Efforts to negotiate a lower sum have failed, with the abductors rejecting an offer of ₦1 million, warning against further talks involving smaller amounts.
Pastor Omole Timothy, whose wife is among the captives, said the kidnappers were firm in their demands.“They are in good spirits but are insisting on ₦1 billion. We tried to negotiate focusing only on the victims, but they refused,”he said.
He added that he briefly spoke with his wife and the other captives, who reported being thirsty, though no one was seriously injured except for an elderly man who suffered a minor head injury.
The abduction has heightened fear across the Oro-Ago axis, with residents appealing to the Kwara State Government and security agencies for swift action to secure the safe return of the victims.
