Abducted Ondo Christians Regains Freedom After Paying N9m Ransom

Five members of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, who were kidnapped during a church service, have been released.

They were released on Monday evening in the Ilado community after their families reportedly paid ₦9 million to secure their freedom.

A family source said the kidnappers first demanded ₦40 million for each victim but later reduced the amount to ₦9 million after negotiations.

The attack took place on February 25, 2026, when gunmen stormed the church during an early morning prayer session and abducted six worshippers.

The Ondo State Police Command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident on Tuesday, saying the police launched an operation in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes.

Police said one of the victims was rescued earlier, and a suspect was arrested in connection with the crime.

The remaining five victims, however, were taken to an unknown location until their eventual release.

Jimoh stated that efforts are still ongoing to track down the other suspects who escaped.

KanyiDaily also reported how nine worshippers were kidnapped from Saint John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.