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One hundred and sixty-three residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have been reunited with their families after spending more than two weeks receiving medical treatment in Ilorin following their release from captivity.
The victims were reported to Kaiama on Thursday by the Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, Abubakar Danladi, in company of the Emir of Kaiama, Omar Shehu Muazu, and the Kiwazi of Wojibe, Ahmed Ibn Mohammad.
Their arrival sparked emotional scenes in the community as relatives and loved ones, who had spent weeks anxiously awaiting their return, welcomed them home.
Victims receive medical care before returning home
After regaining their freedom, the abductees were taken to Ilorin, where they received medical care and other forms of support to help them recover from the ordeal.
After the completion of the medical procedure, the local government president personally oversaw their return to Kaiama to ensure their safe reunion with their families.
The return marks an important milestone in the recovery of the victims, who had spent a long period away from their homes after being taken hostage during an attack on their community.
Victims are said to have received targeted attention to address the physical and emotional effects of their experience before they were allowed to return to their community.
President appreciates Tinubu, AbdulRazaq
Danladi expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for their role and support in the efforts that ultimately led to the release of the abductees.
He described the President’s intervention and concern as significant to the efforts being made to secure the release of the abductees.
Danladi also commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his intervention and commitment to the safety and well-being of residents across the State.
He said the return of the abductees was a moment of relief for the affected families and the wider Kaiama community, stressing that the positive outcome reflected the importance of cooperation between government authorities, security agencies and local stakeholders.
The speaker, traditional rulers and stakeholders were commended
The Kaiama Council Chairman also acknowledged the support of the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, especially his support and solidarity during the victims’ period of imprisonment.
Danladi described the President’s efforts as significant, adding that the support provided by political and community leaders has helped maintain focus on the plight of the abducted residents.
He also praised the Emir of Kaiama and members of the Kaiama Emirate Council for their prayers, guidance and moral support while the victims remained in captivity.
According to him, the traditional institution played an important role in keeping the community united and hopeful during the difficult period.
Community united during the test
Danladi also appreciated the Kaiama Development Association, various trade unions, community leaders and indigenous people of Woro and Kaiama living both in Nigeria and abroad for their contributions during the crisis.
He said prayers, financial contributions, patronage and other forms of support from community members have demonstrated the power of collective action in times of adversity.
The President described the unity demonstrated by the population as an important factor in supporting efforts towards the eventual release and safe return of the victims.
He urged residents to continue supporting the affected families as they gradually recover from the experience and readjust to normal life.
Victims rescued after coordinated security operation
The 163 residents were among those abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area.
They later regained freedom following a coordinated security operation in the forest of Kainji Lake National Park, where the victims had reportedly been held.
Following their rescue, the abductees were transferred to Ilorin for medical treatment before arrangements were made for their return to Kaiama.
Reuniting with families brought relief to relatives and community members who had endured weeks of uncertainty about their safety.
The development also highlights the ongoing security challenges facing communities in some parts of Kwara State and the need for sustained efforts by security agencies and government authorities to protect residents and prevent further attacks.
The return of the 163 abductees is expected to allow the victims and their families to begin the process of rebuilding their lives after the traumatic experience.
