176 abducted Kwara residents regain freedom after six months in captivity
The Kwara State Government has announced the release of 176 residents abducted during the February 3, 2026 attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
The government confirmed the development on Wednesday in a post on its official Facebook page, expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and all those who contributed to securing freedom for the victims who had spent about six months in captivity.
“Alhamdulillah, and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, security forces and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful,” the statement read.
The victims were kidnapped when suspected Boko Haram-linked terrorists invaded the two rural communities on motorcycles in a coordinated attack that lasted several hours.
The assault, regarded as one of the deadliest in Kwara State’s history, reportedly claimed more than 200 lives, left many others injured, destroyed homes and businesses, and displaced several residents.
Local vigilantes who attempted to repel the attackers were reportedly overpowered, with some said to have been trapped and burnt inside their office during the attack.
The circumstances surrounding the victims’ release were not immediately disclosed, while authorities have yet to provide further details on how the operation was carried out.
