Kwara Church Kidnapping Turns Tragic as Five Abducted Worshippers Reportedly Die
More than two months after gunmen stormed a church service in Kwara State and whisked away eight worshippers, hope has given way to heartbreak for families waiting for their loved ones to return home.
Five of the abducted church members, including the wife of the church pastor, have reportedly died while in captivity, according to information brought back by one of the victims who managed to escape from the kidnappers’ camp.
The victims were seized on March 22, 2026, during a Sunday worship service at ECWA Church in Omugo, a community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The grim update was made public by the church’s pastor, Rev. Sunday Omole, who said the escaped worshipper, Mr. Sunday Bakare, returned after weeks in captivity and disclosed that only three members of the group remain alive.
Among those reported dead are Elder Chief David Omopariola, Chief Joseph Ibitoye Afariogun, Mrs. Iyabo Aniyi, Elder Joshua Akanbi Adeyemi and Mrs. Rachel Oluwaremilekun Omole, the pastor’s wife.
The latest development has deepened the sorrow of relatives and church members who had spent weeks praying and hoping for the safe return of the abductees.
Before the tragedy came to light, the church had repeatedly appealed to authorities for help. Rev. Omole had earlier revealed that the community raised N20 million and provided other items to the kidnappers in an effort to secure the release of the victims.
However, despite receiving the ransom, the abductors allegedly failed to release the worshippers and instead demanded a significantly higher payment.
The pastor said the experience left the community frustrated and helpless as negotiations yielded no positive result.
In a message to members, Rev. Omole urged the bereaved families and the church to find strength in their faith during the difficult period, describing the loss as a painful test for everyone affected.
Meanwhile, concern continues to grow over the fate of the three remaining captives, who are reportedly in poor health.
The worshipper who escaped is currently undergoing medical treatment in Omu-Aran after enduring weeks in captivity.
The tragedy has renewed calls for stronger action against kidnapping and violent crime, which continue to threaten lives and disrupt communities across Nigeria.
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