THE governor of Ekiti state, Biodun Oyebanji has visited worshippers from Eda-Oniyo who recently regained their freedom after spending more than two months in captivity following a bandit attack.
The governor met with the survivors on Sunday at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, where they are receiving treatment after being released on Saturday.
In a message shared on his official X account, Oyebanji expressed relief over the victims’ recovery, particularly noting that a young child among them had regained consciousness. He described their improving condition as encouraging and reaffirmed his responsibility to safeguard the lives of residents across the state.
The governor announced that the state government would cover all expenses related to the victims’ medical care and psychological rehabilitation. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of government.
Oyebanji added that his administration would continue working closely with Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security agencies to eliminate criminal activities in the state. He also commended the Eda-Oniyo community and security operatives for their resilience, bravery, and cooperation throughout the rescue efforts.
A representative of the community and former commissioner, Rufus Ajayi, disclosed that residents raised ₦25.5 million through borrowed funds to secure the release of the captives after losing one person during the ordeal. He, however, supported the government’s stance against paying ransom, warning that such payments 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 in Eda-Oniyo. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the congregation, killing the revival leader, Pastor Aregbe, injuring several worshippers, and abducting others.
Following the attack, some worshippers managed to escape into nearby bushes, while the incident sparked widespread public outrage and protests after the victims remained in captivity for several weeks before their eventual release.
