Kaiama residents protest, demand rescue of 176 abducted villagers

Residents of Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State on Friday took to the streets in a peaceful protest, calling on the Federal and Kwara State Governments to intensify efforts to secure the release of 176 people abducted during the February 2 attack on Woro village.

The demonstrators marched through major roads in Kaiama town, carrying placards and appealing to security agencies to prioritise the rescue of those still in captivity.

Joining the protest, the Village Head of Woro, Alhaji Umar Bio Salihu, said the community has continued to endure months of pain and uncertainty, with many families yet to receive any information about their loved ones nearly six months after the attack.

He urged both the federal and state authorities to strengthen ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of the abductees, stressing that the prolonged captivity has left affected families in deep emotional distress.

The February 2 attack on Woro village reportedly claimed the lives of more than 300 people, while 176 residents were abducted. According to community leaders, the abductors have released videos at different times, indicating that the captives remain in their custody.

The protesters said they would continue to seek government intervention until those held captive are rescued and security is improved across communities in the area.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official update from the authorities regarding negotiations or any rescue operation involving the abducted victims.