Ekiti Worshippers Held For Two Months Released After Government Intervention

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has visited worshippers from Eda-Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Government Area who regained their freedom after spending more than two months in captivity. The governor visited the survivors on Sunday at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), where they are receiving medical treatment following their release on Saturday.

Sharing details of the visit on his official X account, Oyebanji said he was encouraged by the survivors’ condition, particularly that of a young child who had regained consciousness. "Earlier today, I visited our resilient brothers and sisters from Eda Oniyo, currently recovering at EKSUTH. Seeing them stable, especially a young child who has now regained consciousness, brings profound relief and reinforces the sacred duty I bear to protect every life in Ekiti State," he wrote.

The governor announced that his administration would bear the full cost of the victims’ medical treatment and psychological rehabilitation. "My administration has undertaken the full cost of their medical and psychological recovery," he said. Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, Oyebanji added, "Let me be clear: security is a fundamental human right, not a political tool. We will continue to collaborate with President Tinubu and our security agencies to relentlessly flush out criminal elements from our state."

He also expressed appreciation to the Eda-Oniyo community and security operatives for their efforts, saying, "I am deeply grateful to the Eda Oniyo community and our security forces for their bravery and intelligence. We will remain united, vigilant, and unyielding in our pursuit of a safe and peaceful Ekiti."

A community representative and former commissioner, Rufus Ajayi, said the community had to borrow money to raise ₦25.5 million ransom, despite losing one person. He supported the government’s refusal to pay ransom, warning it could encourage more kidnappings. The worshippers were abducted in April 2026, when gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked an open-air revival organised by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda-Oniyo.

Oyebanji’s administration has shown a commitment to improving security in Ekiti State.

The abduction sparked widespread outrage, with residents staging protests in early June after the captives remained in the kidnappers’ custody for weeks.

This development is a welcome relief for the families of the kidnapped worshipers, who have been waiting anxiously for their loved ones’ return.

Blockquote:

I am deeply grateful to the Eda Oniyo community and our security forces for their bravery and intelligence. We will remain united, vigilant, and unyielding in our pursuit of a safe and peaceful Ekiti. — Biodun Oyebanji