The Kwara State Government has confirmed the release of all 176 persons abducted during the deadly February 3, 2026 attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.
The announcement was made on Wednesday via the state’s official Facebook page, bringing to an end months of uncertainty over the fate of the victims who were kidnapped during one of the worst security incidents in Kwara State’s history.
Expressing appreciation to those who contributed to the successful release of the victims, the state government commended President Bola Tinubu, security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the operation.
“Alhamdulillaah 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 abductees were taken captive after heavily armed extremists, believed to be affiliated with Boko Haram, invaded the rural communities of Woro and Nuku on motorcycles in a coordinated attack that lasted for several hours.
The assault, regarded as one of the bloodiest ever recorded in the state, reportedly claimed the lives of more than 200 people, left several others injured, destroyed homes and businesses, and forced many residents to flee their communities.
Local vigilante members who attempted to repel the attackers were reportedly overwhelmed. Some were said to have been trapped inside their operational base and burnt alive during the invasion.
While confirming that all 176 abductees had regained their freedom, the state government did not disclose the circumstances surrounding their release or indicate whether they were rescued by security forces, freed through negotiations, or released following the payment of ransom.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement providing further details on how the victims were secured or whether any suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack.
The successful release of the abductees is expected to bring relief to their families and the affected communities, which have continued to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating attack.
