Families and residents of Omugo community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have welcomed the return of the three remaining worshippers of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) who regained their freedom after spending 105 days in captivity.
The three women, one of whom is a hearing-impaired widow, were among eight church members abducted by suspected kidnappers during a Sunday worship service on March 22, 2026.
Five of the victims reportedly lost their lives while in captivity, while the remaining three were freed following a coordinated security operation targeting criminal hideouts in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border.
In a statement, President of the Omugo Development Union, Oladimeji Thompson, described the release as a moment of both joy and sorrow, saying the community was grateful for the return of the survivors but remained heartbroken over those who died.
He said the community endured more than three months of uncertainty, fear and constant prayers while hoping for the safe return of the abducted worshippers.
Thompson also paid tribute to the five victims who lost their lives, extending condolences to their families, the ECWA church and the entire Omugo community.
He commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces, local vigilante groups and other security personnel for their efforts in securing the release of the captives.
The community leader also appreciated traditional rulers, community leaders and Omugo indigenes at home and abroad for their financial support, prayers and encouragement throughout the ordeal.
He urged residents who had fled the community because of insecurity to return home, assuring them that measures had been put in place to improve security and protect lives and property.
Earlier, the Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, disclosed that the victims regained their freedom after sustained military pressure forced suspected kidnappers to release several captives during joint operations along the Kwara-Kogi border.
The group said the operation involved the military, police, hunters and local vigilante groups working together to dismantle criminal camps in the area.
The pastor of ECWA Omugo, Rev. Sunday Omole, also confirmed that the three women had safely returned and appealed to Christians to pray for their physical and emotional recovery after the traumatic experience.
