Five worshippers abducted during an attack on an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) congregation in Kwara State have reportedly died while in captivity, according to information provided by an escapee.

The victims were among those kidnapped when armed men attacked ECWA Church Omugo in the Oro Ago District of Ifelodun Local Government Area during a church service on March 22, 2026.

Sources familiar with the incident said details of the deaths emerged after one of the abductees escaped from captivity and informed community members and families of the victims.

Among those reportedly dead is the wife of the church minister, Pastor Omole.

A source said families of the victims have already been informed of the development.

"The wife of the minister in charge of the church, Pastor Omole, is among those reported to have died in captivity," the source said.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear, and security authorities have yet to officially confirm the reports.

The attack on the church drew widespread concern after gunmen stormed the worship centre, fired shots into the air, and forced several worshippers into a nearby forest.

Initial reports indicated that eight worshippers were abducted during the incident, many of them elderly members of the congregation. Police later confirmed that most of the victims were over 70 years old.

Residents said the attack left the Omugo community gripped by fear, with many families relocating and business activities disrupted.

Days after the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of N1 billion. Following negotiations involving families, community leaders, and intermediaries, the demand was reduced. Relatives later paid N20 million and provided food items and alcoholic beverages allegedly requested by the abductors.

Despite the payment, the captives were not released.

The reported deaths have heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara South, particularly in rural communities where residents have repeatedly called for stronger security measures.

Community members have expressed frustration over the prolonged captivity of the victims and the lack of progress in securing their release.

Security agencies say efforts are ongoing to rescue any remaining abductees and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

As of the time of this report, authorities had not issued an official statement confirming the deaths.