Kwara Kidnappers Reject N155 Million Ransom, Threaten to Force Female Hostages Into Marriage

Kwara State is facing a dual security challenge, with 176 residents abducted in Woro community still held captive despite ransom efforts, while a recent DSS-led operation successfully rescued nine victims in Ekiti LGA. Families in Woro appeal for government intervention as kidnappers threaten to harm captives, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures across the region.

Pelumi Ilesanmi • Local • 1 month ago • 2 minute read •

Key Points

• Kidnappers in Kwara's Woro community rejected a N155 million ransom for 176 abducted residents and threatened to marry female captives or kill other hostages.

• A coordinated operation by the DSS and other security forces successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims and killed three suspected bandits in Kwara's Ekiti Local Government Area.

• Kwara communities and security agencies are appealing to state and federal governments for intensified efforts and more operational equipment to combat persistent insecurity.

Kwara Kidnappers Reject N155 Million Ransom, Threaten to Force Female Hostages Into Marriage

Families of 176 residents abducted from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State say kidnappers have rejected over N155 million raised as ransom and threatened to forcibly marry female captives and kill the remaining hostages.

The victims have been in captivity since February 3, 2026, despite repeated appeals and community efforts to secure their release. Community leaders are now urging the Federal Government and security agencies to intervene before the situation worsens.

The abductors reportedly issued the threats after rejecting the ransom money raised through contributions from affected communities. Residents have appealed to authorities to replicate recent rescue operations carried out in other parts of the country, arguing that months of captivity have left victims facing extreme hardship and danger.

Families say they have exhausted all available options, including peaceful protests, in their efforts to secure the hostages' freedom. In a separate operation, security operatives rescued nine kidnapped victims and killed three suspected bandits during a coordinated raid in the Obbo Aiyegunle, Ejiu Ora and Osi axis of Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The operation, led by the Department of State Services alongside forest guards, hunters and vigilantes, intercepted armed kidnappers transporting victims abducted from different locations. Security personnel have called for improved operational equipment as authorities continue their offensive against kidnapping gangs operating within the state's forest corridors.

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