The abduction of eight ECWA Church members in Omugo, Kwara State, has thrown the Oro-Ago community into fear as bandits have demand N1 billion for their release.
The attackers reportedly rejected a N1 million offer from the community, insisting that all surrounding communities contribute to meet their demand.
The incident occurred during last Sunday’s service, when armed bandits stormed the church and abducted the worshippers. Pastor Omole Timothy, whose wife is among the victims, confirmed that the abductors have contacted the church, warning against any attempt to negotiate the sum or delay payment.
He said he was briefly allowed to speak with his wife.
The lawmaker representing Ghari/Tsanyawa Federal Constituency, Sani Bala, appealed for urgent intervention, calling for the deployment of specialised rescue teams to assist the community in securing the hostages’ release.
Rescue and negotiation efforts were ongoing. Security agencies and the Kwara State government had not responded to requests for comment.