The abducted victims from Eda-Oniyo community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State have regained freedom after spending about two months in captivity.
The victims, who were kidnapped on April 28, 2026, during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) crusade, were taken to the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, for medical evaluation and treatment upon their release.
According to the Ekiti State Police Command, the rescue followed sustained intelligence-led operations and coordinated efforts involving the Nigeria Police Force, the military, other security agencies, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and the Ekiti State Government.
Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu said in a statement on Saturday that the rescued victims were immediately moved to hospital for comprehensive medical checks to assess their condition and ensure they receive proper care.
He quoted the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Falade Michael, as commending the professionalism, dedication, and inter-agency cooperation that led to the successful rescue operation.
The police chief also praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the state government for their support to security agencies, describing it as instrumental to the operation’s success.
Abutu added that the commissioner also appreciated residents of the state for their vigilance and timely sharing of credible information.
Meanwhile, a community leader, Rufus Ajayi, a former commissioner in the state, expressed gratitude over the release of the victims while lamenting the ordeal they endured.
Ajayi said the community had to raise ₦25.5 million through loans and contributions to secure their release, noting that one of the abductees died in captivity.
He, however, backed the state government’s decision not to intervene in ransom payment, warning that such actions could encourage further kidnappings in the state.
The Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Alaba, described the release as bittersweet, expressing sorrow over the loss of one of the victims while welcoming the return of others.
He commended the state government for its support and said the local council had been actively involved in security meetings aimed at preventing a recurrence.
The victims were abducted when armed men attacked worshippers during a crusade organised by the Christ Apostolic Church in Eda-Oniyo community.
