Kidnapped Ekiti church congregation regains freedom, after 67 days (Video)

Congregants of the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Igbala, Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area, who were kidnapped over two months ago have regained their freedom after spending 67 days in captivity.

The victims were released early Saturday morning and immediately taken to a local medical facility for examination and treatment following the trauma they experienced during their ordeal.

The worshipers were kidnapped on April 28 after suspected gunmen stormed an overnight service at the Christ Apostolic Church in Eda-Oniyo.

During the attack, the attackers killed the leading priest and kidnapped 16 worshipers, including women, children and an elderly woman.

The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion before reducing it to ₦50 million.

Although community members reportedly collected and paid ₦10.5 million, along with other items demanded by the kidnappers, the victims were not released, sparking citizen protests and prompting the House of Representatives to immediately request their rescue.

The development was announced by the Ekiti State Police Command in a statement issued on Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu.

According to Abutu, the victims were released following a sustained intelligence-led operation conducted by the police in collaboration with the military, other security agencies, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and the Ekiti State Government.

He confirmed that the rescued pilgrims had been taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment.

Adegoroye assured that efforts were on to trace and arrest those behind the abduction.

Kidnapping Victim Eda Oniyo Ekiti Who Was Freed Currently Receiving Medical Treatment.

They were released after 57 days in captivity. One of them died in captivity. pic.twitter.com/T2KhcwWfWd

— Lere Olayinka – Aresa 1 (@OlayinkaLere) July 4, 2026