Bandits have invaded an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State and abducted some worshippers.
However, it was discovered that three of the kidnapped victims were rescued by security personnel who raced to the area.
Worshippers and locals were terrified when the incident happened on Sunday morning during a weekly church service, according to PUNCH. Before the security personnel intervened, the attackers broke into the church and carried away a number of worshippers, according to a source who spoke to the outlet.
A source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “At least seven people were abducted,” though further details were not provided.
Bolanle Olukoju, the state Commissioner for Communications, confirmed the news to our correspondent and stated that while efforts are being made to gain the release of the remaining abductees, security personnel have successfully freed three victims.
She stated, “We commend the immediate and coordinated response of the security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims and helped to repel the attackers.”
“The Kwara State Government strongly condemns the cowardly targeting of a place of worship under any guise, and we reaffirm that such acts of violence have no place in our communities,” she added.
She further urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by remaining vigilant and cooperating with authorities.
“We call on community members to continue to work closely with security agencies, forest guards, and local vigilantes to bring an end to this menace and safeguard our communities,” the statement noted.
The administration assured citizens of ongoing cooperation with all security stakeholders and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding people and property.
Bandits have expanded their activities in a number of Nigerian states, killing and kidnapping numerous people. They have attacked churches in Kwara before.
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