Bandits Demand ₦1 Billion Ransom For Abducted Ekiti Worshippers

Bandits who kidnapped worshippers during a service at a Christ Apostolic Church in Ekiti State are reportedly demanding ₦1 billion to release the victims.

The incident happened in Eda Oniyo, a community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area, where residents are still shaken by the violence.

According to reports, the gunmen invaded the church during an evening revival around 7:15 p.m.

They shot continuously for more than 30 minutes before abducting 15 people and taking them into a nearby forest.

A visiting pastor was killed during the attack, and families of those taken are anxiously waiting for news about rescue efforts.

Following the attack, community leaders have called for stronger security measures in the area.

They also advised the state government to temporarily stop evening and late-night gatherings to reduce the risk of further attacks.

The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has since visited the community.

He ordered the deployment of a joint security team made up of police, military personnel, and other operatives to search the surrounding forests.

Falade assured residents that security forces are doing everything possible to rescue the kidnapped victims safely.

“We will do everything within our capacity to ensure those kidnapped are rescued alive and reunited with their families,” he said during the visit.

The traditional ruler of the community, Oba Julius Oladipo Owodola, condemned the attack, calling it troubling and unfortunate.

He urged both the state and federal governments to improve security in the area, which locals say has become increasingly unsafe.

Security operations are still ongoing, but there has been no official update on any rescue or negotiations.

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