Pastor Cries for Help as Bandits Demand N1 Billion Ransom for Eight Abducted Kwara Worshippers

A pastor in Kwara State has called for urgent assistance after suspected bandits demanded a ransom of N1 billion for the release of eight members of the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area.

The victims were abducted on Sunday when armed men stormed the church during a service, firing shots to disperse worshippers before taking several congregants away.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, the pastor in charge of the church, Toba Omole, confirmed that eight members remain in captivity, including his wife. He said the abductors established contact after allowing the victims to speak with their families earlier in the day.

He explained that the community was able to hear the voices of the abducted individuals, confirming their condition and whereabouts before the ransom demand was communicated.

According to him, the sum requested is far beyond what the community can raise, prompting an appeal for support from government authorities and the public to facilitate negotiations and secure the release of the captives.

Omole said efforts by security agencies have begun to yield some reassurance. He noted that military personnel visited the community following the incident and deployed troops to provide temporary protection after residents raised concerns about the absence of security presence.

He added that the deployed soldiers remained overnight to help stabilize the area and left the following morning, expressing appreciation for their intervention while emphasizing that the situation still requires sustained attention.