By Peace Erewunmi

Families of 176 abductees from Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies for urgent intervention after suspected terrorists allegedly rejected over ₦155 million raised as ransom for the victims’ release.

Community leaders said residents sold personal belongings, exhausted their savings and organised a community-wide fundraising effort to raise the money in the hope of securing the freedom of their loved ones. However, they alleged that the kidnappers refused to accept the ransom, leaving negotiations at a standstill.

Speaking on behalf of the affected communities, Abdul Ibrahim claimed the abductors had issued fresh threats, warning that they would force some female captives into marriage and kill other hostages if their demands were not met. He described the message as one that has deepened the fear and anguish of families whose relatives have spent nearly six months in captivity.

The community leaders urged the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government and security agencies to launch a decisive rescue operation, noting that peaceful protests, negotiations and fundraising efforts have failed to secure the release of any of the captives. They pointed to the recent rescue of abductees in Oyo State as evidence that a determined security operation can succeed.

The mass abduction occurred in February 2026 when armed attackers invaded Woro and nearby communities, killing several residents and abducting scores of women and children. Since then, families have repeatedly appealed for stronger government intervention to secure the safe return of those still in captivity.