The Kwara State government has announced the release of 176 residents abducted during the February 3, 2026, attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
The development was confirmed on Wednesday through a statement posted on the official Facebook page of the state government, bringing an end to nearly six months of uncertainty for the victims and their families.
Reacting to the development, the government expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and all those involved in securing the victims’ freedom.
“Alihamdulillaah and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!” the statement read.
The victims were kidnapped after suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists invaded the rural communities of Woro and Nuku on motorcycles, launching a coordinated attack that reportedly lasted for several hours.
The assault, described as one of the deadliest security incidents in Kwara State, reportedly left more than 200 people dead, injured several others, destroyed homes and businesses, and forced many residents to flee the affected communities.
Local vigilantes who attempted to resist the attackers were reportedly overwhelmed, with some allegedly trapped and burnt inside their operational office during the attack.
Although the government confirmed the victims had regained their freedom, it did not disclose the circumstances surrounding their release or whether any ransom was paid.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to provide further details on the operation that led to the victims’ freedom.
