JUST IN: Gunmen attack ECWA church in Kwara, kidnap worshippers

Suspected bandits have attacked an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting several worshippers during a Sunday service.

The attack, which occurred in the morning, caused panic among residents and congregants as the assailants stormed the church premises and whisked away victims.

A local source said, “At least seven people were abducted,” although details remain sketchy.

However, joint security operatives were able to rescue three of the victims following a swift response.

Confirming the incident, the state Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, commended the coordinated efforts of security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes.

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.”

Olukoju added that security agencies have been directed to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible.

“While commending the immediate response of the security forces and other stakeholders, we task them to ensure that the ongoing manhunt leads to the rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the perpetrators,” she said.

The state government condemned the attack, describing the targeting of a place of worship as unacceptable.

“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.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.

The incident comes amid heightened security concerns in Kwara South, following intelligence reports warning of possible coordinated attacks across Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.