Joint security operatives on Sunday, March 22, 2026, repelled a suspected bandit attack on an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, rescuing three abducted victims in the process.
The attackers reportedly stormed the church during a service, causing panic among worshippers and residents. A local source said the gunmen invaded the premises and abducted several members before security forces swiftly intervened.
An anonymous source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch disclosed that no fewer than seven persons were taken during the attack.
“At least seven people were abducted,” the source said.
Confirming the incident, the State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said security operatives successfully rescued three victims, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of others.
“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,” she stated.
Olukoju added that the state government had directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible and ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.
“While commending the swift response, we task security operatives to ensure that the ongoing manhunt leads to the rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the perpetrators,” she said.
The commissioner condemned the attack on a place of worship, describing it as cowardly and unacceptable.
“The Kwara State Government strongly condemns the targeting of a place of worship under any guise. Such acts of violence have no place in our communities,” she added.
She also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security efforts by cooperating with relevant authorities.
Olukoju noted that ongoing forest combing operations have begun to yield positive results in curbing criminal activities in the area, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns in Kwara State following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks across parts of Kwara South.
The Kwara South Joint Security Watch had earlier warned of possible attacks targeting Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas, with intelligence indicating potential strikes on March 23 and March 28, 2026.
Coordinator of the group, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, confirmed that security agencies have since deployed military and paramilitary personnel, alongside air surveillance, to forestall the anticipated attacks.
