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, pledging that the state government will cover the full cost of their treatment and rehabilitation.
The governor met the survivors at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), where they are receiving medical care following their release.
In a post on his official X account, Oyebanji said he was encouraged by the victims’ recovery, especially that of a young child who had regained consciousness.
“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 said.
The governor announced that his administration would fully fund the victims’ medical treatment and psychological rehabilitation.
“My administration has undertaken the full cost of their medical and psychological recovery,” he added.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, Oyebanji said the state would continue working with the Federal Government and security agencies to combat criminal activities.
“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 praised the Eda-Oniyo community and security operatives for their efforts in securing the victims’ release.
“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 former Ekiti commissioner and community representative, Rufus Ajayi, revealed that residents borrowed money to raise a ₦25.5 million ransom to secure the captives’ release, despite losing one person during the attack.
Ajayi, however, backed the government’s policy against paying ransom, warning that doing so could encourage further kidnappings.
The worshippers were abducted about three months ago when suspected bandits attacked an open-air revival organised by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda-Oniyo. The gunmen reportedly opened fire on the congregation, killing the revivalist, Pastor Aregbe, injuring several worshippers and abducting others.
Following the attack, Ilejemeje Local Government Chairman Pius Alaba said some worshippers escaped into nearby bushes while others were shot. He also confirmed that the slain pastor’s body was deposited in a morgue.
The prolonged captivity of the worshippers triggered protests by residents last month, with demonstrators demanding intensified efforts to secure their release.
