Nigeria: Terrorists Demand N1 Billion Ransom for Abducted Kwara ECWA Church Members

Terrorists Demand N1 Billion Ransom for Abducted Kwara ECWA Church Members

The Abduction and Ransom Demand

In a distressing development, terrorists have abducted eight worshippers from an ECWA church in Omugo, located in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. The kidnappers have made contact with the family of one of the victims, demanding an exorbitant ransom of N1 billion for their release. This sum is expected to be collected collectively from the residents across the Oro-Ago community.

Failed Negotiations.

Pastor Omole Sunday Timothy of the ECWA Church in Omugo has been at the forefront of the negotiation attempts. Despite the community's efforts to negotiate and offer N1 million, the kidnappers have rejected the proposal outright. Pastor Timothy noted that the terrorists have maintained a rigid stance, refusing to reduce their demands despite the community's pleas.

“They called us and told us that the victims are in good spirits, but they demanded N1 billion from all the communities in Oro-Ago. We are pleading with them to leave Oro and focus on the victims that were kidnapped, but they did not listen to us yesterday,” Pastor Timothy reported.

Communication with the Victims.

Pastor Timothy has managed to stay in limited contact with the abducted worshippers, including his wife. He shared that, although the victims are in relatively good spirits, they are suffering from thirst. There were no major injuries reported, except for an elderly man who sustained a head injury after being hit with a gun.

Community in Fear.

The attack on the ECWA church has plunged the residents of Omugo into a state of fear and panic. This incident follows a brutal assault during a Sunday service, where elderly worshippers, including a 90-year-old blind woman, were brutally attacked. The community remains on edge as they await further communication and hope for the safe return of their loved ones.

Conclusion.

The situation in Omugo highlights the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Nigeria. The hardline stance of the kidnappers and their refusal to negotiate presents a significant hurdle for the community and authorities working towards the safe release of the abducted worshippers. The community's resilience and continued efforts to secure the release of their loved ones demonstrate their unity and determination in the face of adversity.