A coalition of civil society organisations in Kwara State has intensified calls for the release of 176 women and children abducted during violent attacks on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Ilorin, the coalition described the continued captivity of the victims as unacceptable, warning that the situation highlights serious concerns about the protection of vulnerable communities.

The groups, coordinated by the Media Advocacy and Technologies Centre, stated that the abductees had allegedly remained in captivity for about 15 days following coordinated assaults by gunmen on the agrarian settlements.

According to residents, the attacks reportedly left more than 200 people feared dead, several houses burnt, and scores abducted.

"We demand that the Kwara State Government wake up to its responsibilities and put every machinery in place to ensure the immediate release of the women and children of Woro and Nuku communities," the coalition said.

"The people of Woro and Nuku cannot be abandoned at a time like this. It is painful and shameful that 176 innocent citizens, mostly women and children, are reportedly being held under degrading conditions, exposed to harsh weather and uncertainty about their fate."

The coalition urged the state government to deploy all available security resources to secure the safe rescue of the victims, apprehend those responsible, and strengthen protection in vulnerable communities.

It also called for comprehensive rehabilitation and support for survivors of the attacks to help restore stability in the affected areas.