Church Attack Foiled in Kwara

Joint security forces on Sunday foiled an attempted attack by suspected gunmen on an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, rescuing three abducted victims.

The gunmen reportedly stormed the church during a service, causing panic among worshippers before taking several people hostage.

A local source said the assailants abducted members of the congregation before security operatives intervened.

An anonymous member of the Kwara South Joint Security Watch disclosed that at least seven people were initially taken during the incident.

Confirming the development, the State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said security operatives, alongside forest guards and local vigilantes, responded swiftly, repelled the attackers and secured the release of three victims, while efforts continue to rescue the others.

She commended the coordinated response, noting that authorities have intensified efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.

 “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.”

The commissioner condemned the attack on a place of worship, describing it as unacceptable, and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect lives and property.

She also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with useful information, adding that ongoing forest operations have already helped to curb criminal activities in the area.

The government reiterated its commitment to working with security stakeholders to end such threats and maintain peace across the state.

The incident comes as security concerns heightens in Kwara South following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks in parts of the region.

The Kwara South Joint Security Watch had earlier warned of possible attacks targeting Ifelodun, Irepodun and Isin local government areas.

Its coordinator, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, said intelligence indicated potential strikes on March 23 and March 28, adding that security agencies have since stepped up deployments, including military presence and aerial surveillance, to prevent further attacks.

“Yes, it is from the intelligence that we gathered that they are planning to strike, and we don’t want to take anything for granted,” he said.