A Hero’s Welcome: Governor Oyebanji Rushes To Embrace Freed Ekiti Church Victims,

Government Support and Security Commitment

• Governor Oyebanji expressed relief that the survivors, including a young child who recently regained consciousness, are stable and responding to treatment.

• The state administration has committed to covering all expenses related to the victims’ medical care and psychological rehabilitation.

• Reaffirming his stance that security is a fundamental right rather than a political instrument, the Governor pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies to eliminate criminal elements from the state.

• The Governor also expressed gratitude toward the Eda-Oniyo community and security forces for their bravery and intelligence in the efforts to secure the victims’ release.

Background of the Incident

• The victims were abducted in April 2026 during an open-air revival organized by the Christ Apostolic Church in Eda-Oniyo.

• Gunmen suspected to be bandits initiated the attack around 6:45 p.m. on a Tuesday, killing a revivalist identified as Pastor Aregbe.

• Following the attack, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Alaba, confirmed that several congregants were injured and some were abducted, while others managed to flee into the nearby bush.

• A community representative, Rufus Ajayi, noted that the community raised ₦25.5 million for ransom—borrowing the funds—despite the loss of one individual during the initial assault.

• Despite the community’s efforts, Ajayi supported the government’s policy against paying ransom, noting that such payments could embolden criminals and incite future violence.

• The prolonged captivity of the worshippers led to public outrage, including protests staged by residents in early June 2026.