Drama as gunmen demand N1bn ransom for abducted Ekiti worshippers

By Boye Oyeyemi

In a dramatic turn of events, the gunmen who abducted worshippers during a night vigil in Eda-Oniyo, Ilejemeje LGA are demanding N1 billion ransom for their release.

The attackers were said to have invaded a Christ Apostolic Church prayer meeting on the outskirts of the community, killing a visiting pastor and abducting at least 15 worshippers.

Sources disclosed that the victims were taken into nearby forests, while the kidnappers later contacted their families, insisting on the huge ransom for their release.

The traditional ruler of the town, Oba Joseph Awolola, confirmed the development, saying the abductors had made their demand clear to the families.

He said, “The kidnappers have reached out and insisted on N1bn ransom. The situation is causing serious concern in the community.”

Amid rising fear, community leaders and monarchs have called for urgent security measures, including restrictions on late-night religious gatherings.

The Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Pius Alaba, confirmed the abduction, noting that earlier warnings had been issued to religious bodies to limit late-hour programmes due to security threats.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Government has assured residents of ongoing efforts to rescue the victims, with security agencies intensifying operations to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of those abducted.