The last three survivors among eight worshippers abducted during a Sunday morning service at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have regained their freedom.

Bukola Olawole, Rachael Omopariola, and Mosunmola Adekunle were released by their abductors after spending approximately 100 days in captivity. The trio is currently receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation at a faith-based hospital in Omuaran.

One of the freed victims, Madam Rachael Omopariola, who is in her late sixties, recounted the harrowing experiences of their ordeal but declined to appear on camera due to her physical condition.

The Pastor in charge of ECWA Church Omugo, Rev. Timothy Omole, revealed that the kidnappers had contacted him, asking him to come and collect the remaining captives on a specified date. He declined the invitation, citing fears that he and others could also be abducted. Instead, he urged the bandits to release the victims at a safe location.

A relative of one of the freed victims, Rachael Adelodun, described the intense pain and trauma the families endured throughout the long period of uncertainty, particularly concerning Mosunmola Adekunle, who is deaf and dumb.

Tragically, five of the original eight hostages died while in captivity. Among the deceased were Pa Afolayan Omopariola and the pastor’s wife, Mrs. Omole.

Stakeholders in the area have renewed calls for improved security across Kwara State, with particular emphasis on the southern senatorial district, to prevent future incidents of banditry and kidnapping.

The release brings a measure of relief to the community, even as residents continue to grapple with the losses and the lingering impact of the abduction.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Benue State Command, has arrested five men suspected of vandalizing electricity installations and trading in stolen public property.

The suspects, all males between the ages of 20 and 35, were arrested recently.

According to the Command, the arrests were made during patrols in Tse-Ivue and Tse-Dei communities in Guma Local Government Area, and around Lafia Junction in North Bank, Makurdi, following credible intelligence.

Parading the suspects, the Command Public Relations Officer, SC Ejelikwu Michael, gave their names as:
Gbenda Nyiter, Tersoo Bawa, Hanmakwagh James, Jeremiah Uker, and Moses Ikyobo.

Items recovered include about 350 meters of aluminum conductors believed to have been cut from power transmission lines, and two unregistered yellow tricycles used to convey the materials.

The PRO said preliminary investigation shows the suspects conspired to vandalize power installations in Guma, an act that disrupted electricity supply and caused economic loss to government.

One of the suspects, Tersoo Bawa, has admitted to the offence, while two others claimed to be tricycle riders in Makurdi.

Ejelikwu warned that the State Commandant, CC La Bitrus, has zero tolerance for vandalism of critical national assets.

He also warned scrap dealers to stop buying stolen materials, saying anyone found with vandalized items will be treated as an accomplice under the law.

Investigation is ongoing to arrest other members of the syndicate. The suspects will be charged to court soon.

Residents are urged to report suspicious activities around public infrastructure to NSCDC .

Tension remains high in the Ojoo area of Ibadan following a violent clash sparked by the alleged stabbing death of a tricycle rider, which later escalated into retaliatory attacks, gunshots, and destruction of property.

The violence reportedly began after a disagreement the previous night. According to residents and eyewitnesses, the tricycle operator was chased and stabbed to death by suspected Hausa scrap collectors. The incident quickly triggered widespread outrage.

The killing prompted some Yoruba youths to launch retaliatory attacks while demanding justice for the deceased. The unrest led to sporadic gunfire and significant damage to properties in the area.

Security operatives have been deployed to the scene to restore order. As of the latest reports, many shops remain closed and residents are staying indoors as authorities work to prevent further violence and calm the situation.

Local security agencies are investigating the initial stabbing and the subsequent clashes, with appeals for calm from all sides. Community leaders are expected to engage in efforts to promote peace and prevent escalation in Ojoo and surrounding neighborhoods.

Developments are being closely monitored as the situation remains tense.