The victims were seized late Friday night at the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Igan, Oro town, Irepodun Local Government Area, when armed men stormed the premises during a prayer session. Witnesses reported that the attackers fired sporadically before herding worshippers into the bush.
Rescue Operation
Police spokesperson Ejire Adetoun confirmed that joint efforts by the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes, and hunters led to the release of all 38 abductees. The operation stretched into the early hours of Sunday, with security forces combing forests around Oro and neighboring communities.
Community Reaction
Residents expressed relief at the safe return of the worshippers but voiced concern over the rising spate of abductions in Kwara and across Nigeria. Religious leaders called for stronger protection of places of worship, warning that insecurity was eroding faith communities’ sense of safety.
Government Response
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq praised the swift action of security agencies and pledged more support for local vigilante groups. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.
Broader Context
The incident underscores Nigeria’s worsening mass abduction crisis, with churches, schools, and highways increasingly targeted by criminal gangs. Analysts warn that unless systemic reforms are implemented, communities will remain vulnerable despite ad hoc rescue successes.
