BREAKING: Local Security Operatives, Military Rescue 22 Kidnap Victims, Secure Release Of More Captives Along Kwara–Kogi Border

Ilorin, Kwara State– At least 22 kidnapped victims, including church worshippers abducted from different communities in Kwara State, have regained their freedom following a coordinated operation by the Kogi State Joint Security Forces.

Afrika Eyes gathered that the victims were rescued on Saturday night after a fierce operation carried out by the Kogi State Joint Security Forces comprising the Military, Police, Hunters and Vigilante groups in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border.

Among those rescued are four residents of Idofin-Igbana who were kidnapped about three months ago, around early April 2026, 15 church worshippers from Ikerin Church in Eda Oniyo who were abducted on April 28, 2026 during a night vigil and held captive for 60 days, as well as three of the remaining eight worshippers from ECWA Church, Omugo, who were kidnapped in early April 2026 while attending a worship service.

Meanwhile, several other captives, whose identities have yet to be confirmed, regained their freedom during the same operation.

Confirming the development to Afrika Eyes on Sunday, the Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, said the coordinated offensive by security operatives forced the kidnappers to release numerous victims held in hideouts within the forests bordering Kwara and Kogi states.

According to the security group, “A fierce and coordinated operation by Kogi State Joint Security Forces comprising the Military, Police, Hunters and Vigilante groups has forced the release of many captives held in forests along the Kwara-Kogi border.

“The relieving news filtered in last night as freed victims began reuniting with their families.”

The group identified those released as follows: “Four people from Idofin-Igbana — kidnapped about three months ago, around early April 2026.

“Fifteen Ikerin Church worshippers from Eda Oniyo — abducted on April 28, 2026 during a vigil and held for 60 days.

“Three of the remaining eight people from ECWA Church, Omugo — kidnapped in early April 2026 while worshipping.”

The Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, added that there were “others yet to be identified” who also regained their freedom as a result of the security operation carried out in Kogi State.

It praised the efforts of the security agencies involved in the operation and expressed gratitude over the safe return of the victims.

“We give glory to God for answered prayers. We commend the bravery and sacrifice of the Kogi State Joint Security Operatives.

“We pray for the full healing of all victims and for lasting peace across Kwara South and all our border communities,” the group said.

The latest rescue has brought relief to families of the victims, many of whom had endured months of uncertainty following a series of kidnappings that targeted worshippers and residents in communities across Kwara South and the Kwara-Kogi border axis.