Victims abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have regained their freedom after spending about six months in captivity.
Gatekeepers News reports that Kwara State Government confirmed the development on Wednesday, describing it as a major breakthrough in efforts to secure their release.
The victims were kidnapped when heavily armed assailants launched coordinated attacks on the two communities and surrounding settlements. The attacks claimed the lives of at least 75 people, displaced many residents and left widespread destruction. While the exact figure was initially unclear, subsequent reports indicated that 176 women, children and other residents were taken away during the assault.
Announcing the release, the Kwara State Government expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and all those who contributed to the operation. However, authorities did not disclose the circumstances surrounding the victims’ freedom or whether any ransom was paid. The condition of the released victims has also not been officially disclosed.
The abduction drew national attention in April after a video surfaced online showing one of the captives appealing to the government to intensify rescue efforts. Speaking from captivity, the woman said the group included pregnant women, young children and sick persons, urging authorities to act swiftly to secure their release.
