Seven construction workers employed by the Kwara State government have been safely released after being held hostage for approximately three months following their abduction at a construction site in Isin Local Government Area.
The workers were kidnapped along the Sabaja–Owa-Onire Road while engaged in state infrastructure projects, an incident that sparked fear and widespread concern among families and residents. Initial reports indicated that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N500 million, though it remains unclear whether any payment was made or if arrests have been made in connection with the case.
Confirming the release on Monday, Olajide Abolarin, Press Secretary of the Ministry of Works, stated that the workers were safely recovered thanks to coordinated efforts by the state government and security agencies. He commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his political will in confronting insecurity, describing the outcome as a boost to public safety in the state.
Two of the abducted workers were engineers with the Ministry of Works, highlighting the risks faced by personnel involved in public infrastructure projects. “We are grateful to His Excellency and to the security agencies. We also appreciate everyone who stood by us in these trying times,” Abolarin said.
Families of the victims had previously raised alarms over the slow pace of rescue efforts, describing the ordeal as a period of “fear, hunger, and emotional distress.” Mr. Dare Boyinbogun, a family spokesperson, appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify operations to secure the workers’ release—a plea now met with relief following their safe return.
