Gunmen who abducted worshippers during a Sunday service at an Evangelical Church of West Africa in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have demanded a ransom of N1bn for the release of the victims.
The Pastor-in-Charge of the church, Toba Omole, disclosed this in an interview with journalists on Wednesday, confirming that eight members of the congregation, including his wife, remain in captivity days after the incident.
He said the kidnappers established contact with the community on Tuesday, briefly allowing families to speak with the abductees before issuing their demand.
“This morning, we were able to hear from those who were abducted. I heard my wife’s voice and those of other members,” Omole said.
“About eight of them are still in captivity, and the kidnappers have demanded N1 billion for their release.”
The cleric described the demand as far beyond the reach of the affected families and the rural community, thus appealing for urgent intervention from the government and well-meaning Nigerians.
“This is far beyond what we can afford. We are appealing for help and intervention, including efforts toward negotiation to secure their release,” he added.
Report has it that the attack, which occurred during a worship session on Sunday, has since altered daily life in Omugo, with residents fleeing their homes amid fears of another assault and what they perceive as inadequate security presence.
As of Monday, signs of a mass exodus were evident in the community, as several homes remained locked and deserted, while vehicles loaded with household items ferried families to safer locations.
As uncertainty lingers, residents continue to flee Omugo, while families of the abducted hold on to hope amid growing calls for decisive action to stem the tide of rural banditry in the state.
