Kidnappers who attacked a church in Eda Oniyo community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion for the release of abducted worshippers.
The Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Joseph Awolola, confirmed that the abductors had contacted families of the victims, insisting they were still hiding within the community’s forest.
“They told us they want ₦1 billion. They are also telling us that they are still on Eda land,” the monarch said in an interview, as fear continues to grip residents.
The incident followed a deadly attack on a church during an evening crusade, where gunmen reportedly opened fire, killing the presiding pastor and abducting several worshippers, including women and children.
In the wake of the attack, traditional rulers in neighbouring communities have called for an immediate ban on night church services, warning that late-night gatherings are exposing residents to serious security risks.
They also criticised what they described as a slow and ineffective response from security agencies, noting that it took over an hour for operatives to arrive at the scene—by which time the attackers had already fled with their victims.
The development has heightened tension across Ekiti and nearby states, amid rising cases of kidnapping in parts of Kwara State and Kogi State.
Ekiti State’s Special Adviser on Security, retired Brigadier General Ebenezer Ogundana, alongside the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has since visited the community to assess the situation.
They assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims, urging the public to provide timely and credible information to support security operations.
“We must face the reality on ground and act accordingly. When you see something, say something,” Ogundana said, expressing confidence that the victims would be rescued and those responsible brought to justice.
Security agencies, including the police, military, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and hunters, have launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, combing nearby forests in pursuit of the abductors.
Meanwhile, residents remain on edge, with growing calls for stronger security measures to prevent further attacks and restore confidence in the state’s safety.
