Panic in Kwara community as abductors demand ₦1bn to free church worshippers.

Fear has gripped a community in Kwara State after gunmen who stormed a church service and kidnapped several worshippers demanded a staggering ₦1 billion ransom.

The attack, which happened during Sunday service, has left families desperate and the entire area on edge.

The victims – eight in total – were taken from an Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) congregation in Omugo community, located in Ifelodun Local Government Area.

Confirming the incident, the church’s Pastor-in-Charge, Toba Omole, said the attackers invaded the service, fired shots to scatter worshippers, and abducted the victims, including his wife.

He explained that the kidnappers later reached out to the community and briefly allowed the captives to speak with their families before making their demand.

According to him, “We were able to hear from them this morning. I heard my wife’s voice and others. About eight people are still being held, and the kidnappers are asking for ₦1 billion.”

The pastor appealed to the Kwara State Government and concerned Nigerians to step in, stressing that the amount demanded is far beyond what the victims’ families and the community can raise.

“This is something we cannot handle on our own. We are pleading for urgent intervention and support, including efforts to negotiate their release,” he said.

He also acknowledged the swift response of security personnel who visited the area shortly after the attack and helped restore calm, but urged authorities to maintain a stronger and continuous presence.

The incident has since heightened anxiety in the community, with residents calling for intensified efforts to rescue the victims and prevent further attacks.