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Panic has gripped residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State following reports that armed terrorists have issued a one-week ultimatum over the fate of 176 abducted women and children.
The attackers, reportedly linked to Boko Haram, are said to have demanded a ransom of ₦20 million per victim, according to sources close to the affected families.
The mass abduction, which has sent shockwaves across the community, is believed to have occurred during a coordinated raid that left residents vulnerable and displaced.
Family members of the victims, many of whom have been in contact with the abductors, say the situation is becoming increasingly dire.
According to them, the captives were threatened with execution if the demands were not met within the stipulated timeframe. Others, particularly young girls, are reportedly at risk of being forced into marriage.
“They told us clearly that if nothing is done within a week, they will start killing them one by one,” a relative of one of the victims said, expressing fear and frustration over the slow pace of response.
Efforts to negotiate the release of the abducted persons are said to have stalled, with no clear breakthrough between intermediaries and the kidnappers.
The high ransom demand has also placed families under immense financial strain, as many lack the means to raise such amounts.
The incident has further heightened insecurity concerns in parts of northern Nigeria, where rural communities continue to face threats from insurgents, bandits, and other armed groups.
Residents of nearby settlements have reportedly begun fleeing their homes over fears of similar attacks.
As anxiety mounts, community leaders and families have called on both state and federal authorities to intensify rescue operations and secure the safe return of the victims.
They also urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and protection in vulnerable areas to prevent further abductions.
At the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies, but the development underscores ongoing challenges in addressing mass kidnappings and safeguarding civilians in affected regions.
The unfolding situation has left families in anguish, with many clinging to hope as the ultimatum deadline approaches
Sources starnews NG
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