Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The joy of freedom for 163 residents of Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State has been shadowed by the anguish of uncertainty, as 13 of the 176 people abducted on February 3, 2026, remain unaccounted for despite the release of most captives after six months in captivity. The National Chairman of the Kaiama Development Association (KDA), Alhaji Yakubu Salihu, disclosed this on Thursday, August 6, 2026, while speaking with journalists in Ilorin, expressing deep concern over the fate of those still missing and demanding answers about their whereabouts.
According to Salihu, 176 women and children were abducted during the deadly attack on Woro community, but only 163 regained their freedom on Wednesday, August 5, following a joint security operation involving the military, the Department of State Services, the police, and other agencies. "One hundred and seventy-six people were taken away, but only 163 were released. That leaves 13 people still missing. Where are the others?" Salihu asked, his voice carrying the weight of a community that has endured months of anguish. The abduction occurred when armed bandits stormed Woro and Nuku communities, killing more than 100 people and carting away the victims, who were held in captivity in the Kainji Lake National Park Forest.
The community leader further revealed that the prolonged captivity had left deep emotional and physical scars on the survivors. Some of the women became pregnant while in captivity, while others gave birth during their six-month ordeal. The Kwara State Government is making arrangements to transport the freed victims from Niger State, where they are currently receiving medical care and security screening, to Ilorin on Friday, August 7, for further rehabilitation and resettlement. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has thanked President Bola Tinubu, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the security forces for their efforts in securing the release of the victims.
Beyond the trauma of captivity, Salihu renewed calls on the Federal Government to expedite the establishment of a Nigerian Army battalion in Kaiama, arguing that the shortage of security personnel has left communities vulnerable to recurring attacks. "The Federal Government is working towards establishing a Nigerian Army battalion in our community. As a community, we are ready to provide a suitable location and every support needed to ensure the military settles in quickly and begins operations," he said. He also appealed to governments at all levels to rehabilitate the deplorable road network in Kaiama Local Government Area, noting that poor roads continue to hamper security operations and hinder socio-economic development.
The fate of the 13 missing victims now hangs in the balance, and the people of Woro and Nuku communities are left to pray for their safe return while demanding answers from the authorities. As one community leader put it, the joy of freedom for 163 families is incomplete until the 13 missing persons are found and reunited with their loved ones.
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