176 Kwara kidnap victims freed after six months in captivity

Exactly six months after one of the deadliest terrorist assaults in Kwara State’s history, 176 abducted residents—predominantly women and children—have regained their freedom.

The Kwara State Government confirmed the breakthrough on Wednesday, August 5, bringing an end to half a year of agonising uncertainty for families in the remote Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area.

The victims were seized on February 3, 2026, when suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists mounted on dozens of motorcycles swept into the rural farming settlements. The hours-long raid left over 200 people dead, destroyed homes, and saw local vigilantes trapped and burned inside their command office after being heavily outgunned.

Following their release, the freed captives were moved to the Wawa Military Cantonment in neighbouring Niger State for initial medical screening and security debriefing before being transported back to the Kwara State capital, Ilorin.

Official statements issued by state authorities gave credit to federal security apparatuses and President Bola Tinubu for coordinating the release of the hostages.

“Alhamdulillaah and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat,” the Kwara State Government announced in an official release. “We are grateful!”

Confirming the logistical arrangements, Ibraheem Abdullateef, Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Communications, emphasized the joint operational effort:

“The Kwara State Government is pleased to announce that security forces have rescued the people who were kidnapped from Woro community in Kwara North,” Abdullateef stated.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the security agencies and everyone who contributed to this successful operation. We are grateful.”

The abduction triggered national outrage shortly after the February raid when the extremist group released proof-of-life footage showing dozens of visibly malnourished women holding infants in heavily forested terrain. In the video, captives confirmed their identity as residents of the Woro community and pleaded for state intervention.

While security agencies have not disclosed whether the freedom was secured through a tactical military rescue, negotiated release, or back-channel diplomatic intervention, officials confirmed that comprehensive medical and psychological support will be provided to the survivors upon their arrival in Ilorin.