How Shouts of “Jesus” Saved 70-Year-Old as Gunmen Abduct Worshippers in Kwara

Armed attackers disrupted a Sunday service at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting eight worshippers and leaving residents shaken amid a string of recent incidents in the region.

The attack occurred around 10:10 a.m. while service was in progress. Witnesses said eight armed men, their faces covered, were seen approaching the church from about a kilometre away, firing shots into the air. Panic spread quickly among the congregation of about 60 people, forcing many to flee into nearby bushes and homes.

Those unable to escape—mainly elderly members—were seized.

Among those taken was the wife of the church’s pastor, who was reportedly slowed down by a baby strapped to her back. The child was left behind as the attackers dragged her away along with others. Victims include three elderly women, three men, and a middle-aged woman.

A widely circulated video from the scene captured a moment of survival involving a woman in her 70s. According to her account, she was grabbed twice by one of the attackers while trying to escape. Each time, she shouted “Jesus save me,” after which the assailant released her. She eventually escaped, though her bag—containing her Bible and offering—was taken and later recovered in the forest.

Community sources said at least six other worshippers were spared due to visible health challenges, while two nonagenarians initially taken were later abandoned by the attackers, reportedly because they could not keep pace.

The incident follows a similar attack months earlier on a church in the state, raising concerns over growing insecurity in rural communities. Residents of Omugo and surrounding areas say the absence of security presence has left them vulnerable, noting that there are no functional police checkpoints along key routes.

Local vigilante groups also cited lack of adequate weapons as a major challenge in confronting armed groups.

The traditional ruler of the community has appealed to the Kwara State Government to strengthen local security efforts, particularly by equipping vigilantes.

In a statement, the state government condemned the attack and confirmed that three of the abducted victims had been rescued. Authorities said security forces and local operatives are conducting search operations to locate the remaining captives and apprehend those responsible.

However, the situation remains tense. The attackers have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion for the release of the remaining victims.

The church’s pastor confirmed that contact had been established with the abducted members, including his wife, but described the ransom demand as beyond the community’s means. He called for urgent assistance from authorities and the public.

Security personnel were deployed to the area hours after the incident, with soldiers maintaining a temporary presence overnight. Residents say while the move brought some relief, sustained protection is needed to prevent further attacks.

As search efforts continue, families of the victims await their safe return amid growing calls for stronger security measures across vulnerable communities in Kwara State.