Abducted Ekiti Church Worshippers Freed After 67 Days in Captivity

Fourteen worshippers abducted during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) crusade in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti have been rescued by the police in Ekiti State. The victims, mostly residents of the community, were seized on April 28 when gunmen invaded an open-air crusade. During the initial attack, the officiating pastor was killed, and 15 worshippers were taken to an unknown location.

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The Commissioner of Police, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, commends the dedication, professionalism, and synergy exhibited by all security stakeholders whose collective efforts culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.

The abductors, who initially demanded a ransom of N1 billion, later reduced their demand to N50 million. Despite the community raising and paying N10.5 million, the kidnappers refused to release the captives. Reports indicate that one of the 15 abducted individuals died while in captivity, and the remaining survivors are in critical physical and emotional condition.

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He particularly appreciates the Ekiti State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for its unwavering support to the security agencies, which greatly contributed to the success of the operation.

The successful rescue operation was the result of sustained, intelligence-led efforts and coordinated actions by the police, military, Amotekun corps, local hunters, and the Ekiti State Government. The rescued victims have been taken to the hospital for medical examination and treatment.

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The Commissioner also thanks the good people of Ekiti State for their continuous cooperation, vigilance, and timely provision of credible information.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, commended the dedication and synergy of all security stakeholders involved. He also expressed gratitude to the Ekiti State Government for its unwavering support and to the people of Ekiti State for their cooperation and vigilance. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

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While efforts are currently being intensified to arrest the perpetrators, the Commissioner of Police reassures residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.