The Kwara State government has confirmed the release of 176 abducted victims, mainly women and children, six months after their kidnapping.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Communications, Ibraheem Abdullateef, confirmed the report and appreciated the security operatives.

According to a statement issued yesterday, Abdullateef commended the efforts of the security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the operation.

He also expressed the state government’s appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and security personnel for their joint roles in securing the victims’ freedom.

He said: “The Kwara State Government is pleased to announce that security forces have rescued the people who were kidnapped from Woro Community in Kwara North.

“We commend President Bola Tinubu, the security agencies and everyone who contributed to this successful operation. We are grateful,” he said.

Also, Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Kwara State, Alhaji Abubakar Danladi, confirmed the release of the kidnap victims.

Danladi, who is also the Chairman of Kaiama Local Council, told newsmen that the victims, with others, are currently in Wawa Cantonment, Niger State, awaiting transportation back to Kwara.

He said: “Yes, it’s true that they have been released, and I can’t tell for now whether ransom was paid or not.  They are currently in Wawa military cantonment in Niger State, because our people are not the only victims released.

“But the office of the Secretary to the State Government is currently arranging vehicles that will bring them to Ilorin. So, I thank Almighty God that their release happened in my time, and I’m very happy about this.”

Also, the member representing Gwanabe/Gweria/Bani/Adena State Constituency, Saidu Baba Ahmed, confirmed the development.

“Yes, the Woro kidnap victims have been released. I’m very, very excited about this. We give thanks to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and our security operatives,” the lawmaker said.

Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said she couldn’t confirm the development, but promised to revert as soon as she confirms it from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Kaiama.

However, the Commissioner of Police (CP), Ojo Adekimi, said: “I’m not aware, so I cannot confirm it. I made contact with Kaiama Local Council, but couldn’t get concrete information.”

Recall that the attack on the Woro Community in Kaiama Council of Kwara State occurred on the evening of Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

The assault resulted in the deaths of over 160 people, with local and Red Cross estimates indicating that the total toll may be as high as 170–200 killed.

Also, over 170 people were reportedly abducted or missing during the raid.