Gunmen Attack Church In Kwara, Kidnap Worshippers During Sunday Service, 3 Escape

Suspected bandits have attacked a church in Kwara State and abducted several worshippers during a Sunday service, causing panic in the community.

The incident happened at the Evangelical Church of West Africa in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area, on March 22, 2026. According to reports, the gunmen stormed the church while service was ongoing and fired shots to scare members before taking some of them away.

Sources said eight worshippers were kidnapped during the attack, but three of the victims later escaped from the abductors.

The Kwara State Government confirmed the incident in an official statement and praised security operatives for their quick response, which led to the rescue of the three victims.

The statement, signed by the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said security agencies, forest guards, and local vigilantes have been directed to track down the attackers and rescue the remaining victims.

The government strongly condemned the attack, describing the targeting of a place of worship as unacceptable and assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to restore security in the area.

Authorities also urged community members to continue cooperating with security agencies to help stop criminal activities in the affected communities.

The statement added that ongoing operations in nearby forests have already reduced the activities of armed groups, and security forces will continue their search until those responsible are arrested and the remaining victims are safely returned.