Kidnappers demand N1bn ransom for abducted Ekiti church worshippers

Gunmen who abducted 15 worshippers during a night vigil at a Christ Apostolic Church in Ekiti State have demanded a ransom of N1 billion for their release.

The Eleda of Eda-Oniyo, Oba Joseph Awolola, disclosed the demand during a visit by a government delegation to the community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area.

The victims were kidnapped on Tuesday night at a church located in Eda-Oniyo, while a guest pastor was reportedly killed during the attack.

The delegation was led by Ebenezer Ogundana, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and included the state Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, as well as the Ilejemeje council chairman, Pius Alaba.

Oba Awolola said the traditional council was ready to work with authorities to address the situation and prevent further attacks in the area.

Mr Alaba revealed that among those abducted was a family of four, including a mother and her three children, adding that efforts were ongoing to secure the victims’ release.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State government condemned the incident, describing it as “heinous and unacceptable.”

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The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said authorities were intensifying efforts to ensure the safe return of the victims and improve security in the state.

The attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, particularly incidents targeting religious gatherings and rural communities.