Kwara community celebrates return of abducted ECWA worshippers

Families and residents of the Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have celebrated 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.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, President of the Omugo Development Union, Oladimeji Thompson, described the return of the three women as a moment of mixed emotions, saying the community was celebrating their freedom while mourning those who lost their lives.

“With grateful hearts, we give all glory to Almighty God because the three remaining mothers in captivity have finally regained their freedom and have been reunited with their families.

“Indeed, God has once again shown that He hears and answers the prayers of His people. To Him alone be all the glory,” Mr Thompson said.

He recalled that the attack on the church was one of the darkest moments in the community’s history, noting that Omugo endured 105 days of fear, uncertainty and continuous prayers while hoping for the victims’ safe return.

“For 105 painful days, our community lived in fear, anxiety, uncertainty and unceasing prayers. Yet, we never gave up hope. We trusted in God, stood together as one people and believed that He would make a way where there seemed to be none,” he added.

The three women, including a hearing-impaired widow, were among eight worshippers abducted by suspected kidnappers who invaded the church during a Sunday service on 22 March 2026.

While five of the victims reportedly died in captivity, the remaining three regained their freedom following a coordinated security operation targeting suspected kidnappers operating in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border.

Tribute to deceased victims

Mr Thompson also paid tribute to the five worshippers who died in captivity, describing their deaths as a painful loss that would never be forgotten.

“Even as we celebrate this joyful reunion, our hearts remain heavy with grief as we remember the five precious worshippers who lost their lives in the kidnappers’ den.

“On behalf of the Omugo Development Union, I extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, ECWA Church, Omugo, and the entire community. May the Almighty God comfort every grieving family and grant eternal rest to the souls of our departed brothers and sisters,” he said.

Appreciation to security agencies

The community leader commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces, local vigilante groups and other security personnel for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

“We sincerely appreciate the government at all levels, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Armed Forces, local vigilante groups and all security personnel whose courage, professionalism and relentless efforts contributed to the successful rescue of the remaining captives,” Mr Thompson said.

He also praised the Oloro of Oro Ago, the Olomugo of Omugo, the Council of Chiefs, and members of the Omugo community at home and in the diaspora for their support, prayers and financial contributions throughout the ordeal.

Mr Thompson further urged displaced residents to return home, assuring them that measures had been put in place to guarantee the safety of lives and property.

Security operation

Earlier, the Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, disclosed that the victims regained their freedom after sustained pressure was mounted on the kidnappers during a coordinated security operation along the Kwara-Kogi border.

The group said a joint operation involving the military, police, hunters and vigilante groups forced the kidnappers to release several captives held in the forests.

Church confirms release

The pastor of ECWA Omugo, Rev. Sunday Omole, confirmed that the three women had returned safely and appealed for prayers for their recovery.

“With great joy in my heart, I announce that we already received back three of the eight people kidnapped from ECWA Omugo this afternoon. Join us as we pray for their quick recovery in Jesus’ name, amen,” Mr Omole said.