Five worshippers killed in Kwara church abduction; one escapes

By Demola Akinyemi

Terrorists have killed five of the eight worshippers abducted at ECWA Church Omugo in Ifelodun local government area of Kwara state, according to an eyewitness who escaped captivity.

Rev. Sunday Omole, who spoke to Vanguard last month, urged the federal government to accelerate action to secure the release of the abductees.

The clergyman said that after the community paid the terrorists ₦20 million and supplied additional items worth more than ₦300 000, the abductors refused to release the worshippers and instead demanded an extra ₦300 million ransom.

He added that the terrorists’ actions made it clear that they were exploiting the community.

Eight worshippers, including the pastor’s wife, were kidnapped on the morning of March 22, 2026 during a Sunday service.

The death of the five worshippers, including the pastor’s wife, was confirmed in information obtained by Vanguard from the church’s pastor, Rev. Sunday Omole, and released to the public on a Wednesday evening. It reads:

“It is with deep pain in my heart that I inform the church, families and individuals concerned in regard to the 8 people that were abducted from ECWA OMUGO on 22nd of March, 2026.”

“We received one of our son’s, Mr Sunday Bakare also abducted over a month ago, he escaped and brought the following news that only 3 out of 8 of our people are remaining with the kidnappers. The remaining 5 have gone to be with the Lord.”

“They are;

1. Elder Chief David Omopariola,
2. Chief Joseph Ibitoye Afariogun,
3. Mrs Iyabo Aniyi,
4. Elder Joshua Akanbi Adeyemi and
5. Mrs. Rachel Oluwaremilekun Omole (his wife)

“Brethren, let’s know that God knows why He allows this to happen. The great comforter will comfort us in Jesus name, amen.”

“The prayers of the saints in the beginning of the church also worked and answered still they had martyrs. John 16:33 says (NIV) “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Heaven is our home and Gain. Let’s reason as child of God as we navigate this moment. God bless you, and comfort you all in Jesus name, amen.”

Vanguard also reported that the three remaining worshippers are in poor health, while the member who escaped is currently receiving urgent medical care at a private hospital in Omu‑Aran.

The post Kwara church abduction: Five worshippers killed, one escapes captivity appeared first on Vanguard News.