The worshippers abducted during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have regained their freedom after more than two months in captivity.
However, one of the victims, a woman, died while being held by the kidnappers.
The victims, who were abducted on April 28, 2026, are receiving treatment at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital in Ado-Ekiti at the expense of the state government.
Gunmen had invaded the church during an evening service, shot the pastor and abducted 16 worshippers, including women and children, before taking them into the forest.
The kidnappers reportedly demanded an initial ransom of ₦1 billion, which was later reduced to ₦50 million. Although the community reportedly raised ₦10.5 million and other requested items, the victims remained in captivity, sparking protests and calls for their rescue.
Confirming their release, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Alaba Dada, expressed gratitude that the victims returned alive but lamented the death of one of the captives.
He said the survivors were initially taken to the General Hospital in Iye Ekiti before being transferred to EKSUTH for further treatment, adding that many of them suffered injuries and severe exhaustion after reportedly going without food for more than a week.
A community leader, Ayodele Oni, described the victims’ return as a huge relief, saying it ended about 65 days of anxiety for their families and the community.
The Ekiti State Police Command said the victims were rescued through coordinated intelligence-led operations involving the police, the military, other security agencies, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters and the Ekiti State Government.
Police spokesperson SP Sunday Abutu said the rescued victims are undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, while efforts have been intensified to arrest those responsible for the abduction.
The Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, commended all security agencies and residents for their cooperation during the rescue operation.