Emmanuel Obi
Eight worshippers of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) abducted in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, remain in captivity as their kidnappers insist on a ₦1 billion ransom for their release.
Reverend Omole Timothy, pastor of the ECWA church, told Channels Television that the attackers initially contacted church and community leaders, demanding the hefty sum from all communities in the Oro-Ago area. Efforts to negotiate a lower amount have so far failed.
“They called us and told us they are in good spirits, but they demanded ₦1 billion from all the communities in Oro-Ago.
“We pleaded with them to focus only on the kidnapped individuals, but they ignored our request,” Reverend Timothy said.
The pastor explained that a later attempt to negotiate ₦1 million was rebuffed, with the abductors warning against discussing lower amounts.
“We offered ₦1 million, but they told us not to talk about ₦20 million, ₦50 million, or even ₦100 million. Then they switched off the phone, and we have not heard from them since,” he added.
Reverend Timothy revealed he had a brief conversation with his wife, who is among the captives.
“Yes, I spoke with her and the others. They said they are all thirsty. No one was seriously injured except an elderly man who was hit on the head with a gun,” he said.
