Kidnapped Ekiti Worshippers Regain Freedom After 67 Days in Captivity

​EDA-ONIYO, EKITI — After enduring 67 days of uncertainty, the congregation of the Christ Apostolic Church in Oke Igbala, Eda-Oniyo, finally has cause to celebrate as their abducted members have been released from captivity. The victims, who were kidnapped during a violent attack on April 28, 2026, regained their freedom late Friday night and have since been reunited with their community.

​The rescue marks the end of a harrowing ordeal that began when armed assailants stormed a church revival programme at a prayer mountain in the Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State. The attack resulted in the death of the presiding pastor and the abduction of 16 worshippers, including women and children. Tragically, reports from the community indicate that one of the captives did not survive the prolonged period in the kidnappers’ den.

​A Coordinated Security Effort

​The Ekiti State Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Sunday Abutu, confirmed on Saturday that the victims were secured following a sustained, intelligence-led operation. The successful mission involved a multi-agency collaboration, including the Nigeria Police Force, the military, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and the active support of the Ekiti State Government.

​State Commissioner of Police, CP Falade Adegoroye, lauded the professionalism of the security teams, describing the breakthrough as a direct result of effective inter-agency synergy. He also extended his appreciation to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to supporting security operations and thanked the local residents for their vigilance and the provision of critical information throughout the rescue mission.

​A Long Road to Recovery

​Upon their return to Eda-Oniyo in the early hours of Saturday, the survivors were immediately transported to a local medical facility. They are currently undergoing comprehensive medical examinations and trauma care to address the physical and psychological impact of their two-month captivity.

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​The community had previously navigated a period of intense public pressure and advocacy. Following the abduction, the kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion, which was later negotiated down to ₦50 million. Local sources state that the community managed to raise and pay ₦10.5 million alongside other items demanded by the gunmen, yet the victims remained in captivity. The situation had grown so dire that it drew the attention of the House of Representatives, which passed a resolution in June demanding immediate action for their rescue.

​Next Steps for Investigation

​While the primary objective of securing the victims has been achieved, the State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to justice. Commissioner Adegoroye stated that efforts have been intensified to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

​”We remain steadfast in our mandate to protect the lives and property of all residents in Ekiti State,” CP Adegoroye said. He further urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies, emphasizing that proactive community cooperation remains the strongest weapon against criminal incursions in the region.