Pastor Clement Adebisi, the spouse of a teacher at Apostolic Faith Group of Schools, Emure Ekiti, who was abducted in Ekiti State two weeks ago, shares the family’s ordeal during the incident.
Q: Congratulations on your wife’s release. How did you feel on learning about the kidnapping?
A: As a human, I felt devastated, but relying on Christ, I knew we could overcome. I had faith that the incident would pass, believing the battle belonged to the Lord. I was trying to contact my wife on the day of the incident, but due to network issues, I couldn’t reach her. The news of a robbery and her abduction came around 6 pm while I was with my boss in Emure Ekiti. We immediately sought a solution, and I went to pray at the church in Eporo, asking God for strength.
Q: Can you recount the communication with the kidnappers?
A: My wife called on Tuesday around 7 pm, informing me of her abduction. The kidnappers demanded N10m, but I couldn’t afford it. They called several times, threatening harm. We gathered what funds we could raise, and between Monday and Saturday, I lived in agony, fasting and praying.
Q: What was it like not knowing your wife’s whereabouts during that period?
A: I was on the verge of despair, fasting and praying. I refrained from eating or bathing, knowing my wife wasn’t eating in captivity. For seven days, I endured, seeking divine intervention. Genuine prayers give assurance that challenges will not overcome.
Q: Did fear ever creep in during this time?
A: Initially, I feared facing the gunmen. However, our leaders planned for us to go to the forest to rescue the kidnapped. Despite the dread, we embarked on the mission to bring them back, trusting in God.
Q: How did the journey to the forest for the release unfold?
A: We kept our plans discreet, fearing the kidnappers were aware. We bought supplies as instructed and proceeded to the forest, facing gunmen. It was a challenging journey, but ultimately, we give glory to God.
Q: What were your emotions upon seeing your wife?
A: My focus was rescuing all, not just my wife. Though weak, she wasn’t the first I brought out. We lost the driver to the kidnappers’ violence, a painful moment. My wife endured severe torture, with scars evident on her body. Her plea during captivity was, ‘Daddy, find the money, don’t let them kill me.’ I thank God for His intervention.
