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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Crime & Justice

176 abducted victims freed in Nigeria's Kwara State

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • 176 victims abducted in Kwara State's Kaiama Local Government Area have regained their freedom.
  • The victims were kidnapped on February 3, 2026, by suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists who invaded Woro and Nuku communities.
  • The attack was one of the deadliest in Kwara State's history, claiming over 200 lives and causing significant destruction.

The Kwara State Government announced on Wednesday that 176 individuals abducted in February have been freed. The victims were taken from the Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area by suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists. The government expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security forces for their role in the release.

The abduction occurred on February 3, 2026, when attackers on motorcycles invaded the rural communities. The assault reportedly lasted several hours. This incident is considered one of the deadliest in Kwara State's history, with initial reports indicating over 200 lives lost, numerous injuries, and extensive damage to homes and businesses. Many residents were forced to flee their homes.

Local vigilantes attempted to resist the attackers but were reportedly overwhelmed. Some vigilantes were allegedly trapped and burned during the confrontation. Details surrounding the specific circumstances of the victims' release were not immediately available.

Alihamdulillaah and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!

โ€” Kwara State GovernmentThe Kwara State Government's official Facebook page announced the victims' freedom.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.