Bandits Storm ECWA Church in Kwara, Abduct Worshippers During Service – Three Rescued by Security Forces

 

Armed bandits invaded the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Sunday morning during a weekly church service, abducting an unspecified number of worshippers and causing widespread panic among congregants and residents.

The attackers, reportedly wielding sophisticated weapons, stormed the church premises in a brazen operation that disrupted the ongoing service. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as gunshots rang out, forcing worshippers to scatter in fear.

Joint security operatives, including police and possibly other agencies, responded swiftly to the incident. According to initial reports, three of the abducted victims have already been rescued in a follow-up operation, though the exact total number of those kidnapped remains unconfirmed by authorities at the time of this report. Several worshippers reportedly escaped during the confusion, while others may still be in captivity.

This latest attack adds to the growing wave of insecurity in parts of Kwara State and surrounding regions, where banditry and kidnappings have increasingly targeted vulnerable communities, including places of worship. The incident echoes earlier high-profile abductions in the state, such as the November 2025 attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, where 38 worshippers were taken (and later freed), highlighting persistent challenges in rural security.

Local residents expressed outrage and fear, calling on the Kwara State Government and federal security agencies to bolster patrols and intelligence in border communities like Omugo, which lie in vulnerable areas.

Kwara State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement on the casualty figures, identities of the victims, or ongoing rescue efforts. However, sources indicate that investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of any remaining abductees.

Community leaders have urged calm while appealing for enhanced security measures to prevent further attacks on innocent civilians during religious gatherings.

This developing story will be updated as more details emerge from security agencies and eyewitness accounts.