Suspected bandits have reportedly demanded a ₦1 billion ransom for the discharge of eight kidnapped worshippers from the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) in Kwara State.
The victims have been kidnapped on Sunday when gunmen stormed a church service in Omugo, Ifelodun LGA of Kwara State, firing pictures to disperse the congregation earlier than taking a number of members away.
Chatting with Information Central TV, the church’s pastor-in-charge, Toba Omole, whose spouse is amongst these kidnapped, confirmed that eight individuals stay in captivity.
He stated the abductors made contact on Tuesday morning and allowed the victims to talk briefly.
“This morning, to the glory of God, we heard from our individuals who have been kidnapped about three days in the past. We heard their voices, and I heard my spouse’s voice and different members — the women and men that have been kidnapped collectively,” Omole stated.
“About eight of them are nonetheless there. And immediately, the abductors made their demand. They requested N1 billion from us as a way to safe their launch.”
The cleric described the demand as far past what the group can afford and appealed for assist.
“That is past our energy. We’re sincerely in want of your assist and help. Any negotiations you can also make, any efforts you can also make to help us, please kindly accomplish that for us,” he stated.
Whereas acknowledging efforts by safety businesses, Omole pressured that extra must be completed to safe the world and make sure the protected return of the victims.
“There’s nonetheless work to do as a result of eight individuals — our moms, fathers, and wives — are nonetheless in captivity. My spouse is there,” he added.
He additionally appreciated the intervention of troopers who visited the group after the assault and offered momentary safety presence in a single day.