Terrorists who abducted eight worshippers of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have demanded a ransom of N1 billion for their release.
The victims were kidnapped during a church service over the weekend when the gunmen invaded the community.
Security operatives and local vigilantes were able to rescue three of the worshippers, while the remaining victims were taken away by the attackers.
Since the incident, tension has gripped the community and neighbouring areas, as families of the victims continue efforts to secure their release.
Confirming the development, the presiding pastor of ECWA, Omugo, Rev. Omole Sunday Timothy, said the abductors initially contacted church and community leaders, insisting on a ransom of N1 billion to be raised from communities in Oro-Ago.
He revealed that attempts to negotiate a lower amount have so far failed, with the kidnappers rejecting offers and warning against further negotiations involving smaller sums.
“They called us and told us they are in good spirits, but they demanded N1 billion from all the communities in Oro-Ago,” he said.
The cleric added that the abductors dismissed appeals to negotiate strictly for the victims, rather than involving entire communities.
“They told us not to talk about N20 million, not N50 million, not even N100 million, and they switched off the phone. Since then, we have not heard from them,” he added.
Rev. Timothy also disclosed that he briefly spoke with his wife, who is among those abducted, alongside other victims.
According to him, the captives complained of thirst but confirmed that no one had been seriously injured, except an elderly man who was struck on the head.
He called on both the state and federal governments to urgently intervene to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security in the area.
Hammed Shittu
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