Kwara-Woro Freed Victims Arrive Ilorin; Children Already Enlisted in Bandits Army

Victims abducted during the deadly attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have arrived in Ilorin after regaining their freedom following months in captivity.

The rescued victims were brought to the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, late Thursday night before being taken to an undisclosed location, where they spent the night ahead of further medical evaluation and official procedures.

The victims were kidnapped in February 2026 when armed bandits attacked Woro community, killing several residents and taking many others into the forest. The incident sparked widespread concern and led to intensified security operations involving military and other security agencies.

Following sustained operations, the abductees were rescued and transported from neighbouring Niger State to Kwara.

The Kwara State Government is expected to formally receive the victims before they are reunited with their families after undergoing medical checks and other necessary support services.

Authorities are still verifying the exact number of those rescued while efforts continue to account for everyone abducted during the attack.

Meanwhile, the member representing Gwanabe/Gweria/Bani/Adena State Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Saidu Baba-Ahmed, disclosed that some of the children abducted during the attacks have allegedly been recruited by the bandits.

Speaking during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Friday, the lawmaker said the number of rescued victims was lower than the 176 people reportedly abducted from Woro and neighbouring Nukku communities on February 3, 2026.

According to him, about 25 of the abducted persons are still missing, while some died in captivity and were buried by fellow abductees.

He added that survivors who returned home revealed that children aged 13 years and above were allegedly forced into the bandits’ ranks during their captivity.

Baba-Ahmed said the rescued victims are currently receiving medical treatment in Ilorin, while the state government is assessing their health before reuniting them with their families.

The lawmaker commended both the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government for their efforts, as well as the security agencies involved in securing the victims’ release.