From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Relief has swept across Kwara State, following the release of 176 women and children, who were abducted from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, during a deadly terrorist attack six months ago.
The victims were reportedly freed on Wednesday after spending months in captivity following the February 2026 invasion of the community by heavily armed terrorists suspected to be Boko Haram members.
The attack, regarded as one of the bloodiest in Kwara State’s history, claimed the lives of more than 200 residents, while hundreds of women and children were taken away by the attackers.
Although the circumstances surrounding the victims’ release remain unclear, it was not immediately known whether the operation involved the payment of ransom or a coordinated military rescue.
Confirming the development, the Kwara State Government announced the release in a statement shared on its official social media platforms.
The government stated: “Breaking: Woro Kidnap Victims Regain Freedom.
“Alhamdulillaah and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!”
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Communications, Ibraheem Abdullateef, also confirmed the development, describing it as a major breakthrough in ongoing security efforts.
“Kwara State Government is happy to share that the security forces have rescued the people who were kidnapped at Woro community in Kwara North,” Abdullateef said.
He added: “Kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!”
The victims’ release brings hope to families and residents of Woro community, which has continued to recover from the devastating February attack that left hundreds dead and many others displaced.
