Victims abducted on April 28, 2026 following an attack carried out by armed men at Christ Apostolic Church, Eda-Oniyo, Ekiti State, have regained freedom.
Thenewsbearer reports that the victims, most of who looked gaunt and could hardly walk, had been held hostage for 67 days before they were set free.
The Public Relations Officer of Ekiti State Police Command, SP Sunday Abutu, confirmed the rescue of the victims in a statement on Saturday, July 4.
According to the PPRO, the successful rescue followed sustained intelligence-led operations and coordinated efforts by the Nigeria Police Force, the military, other security agencies, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and the Ekiti State Government.
He said that the rescued victims had been taken to the hospital for medical examination and treatment to ascertain their health condition and ensure they receive adequate medical care.
The Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, who expressed joy at the return of the victims back to their families, commended the dedication, professionalism, and synergy exhibited by all security stakeholders whose collective efforts culminated in the successful rescue of the victims.
He particularly appreciated the Ekiti State Government for supporting the security agencies, which greatly contributed to the success of the operation.
The Commissioner of Police also thanked the people of Ekiti State for their continuous cooperation, vigilance, and timely provision of credible information.
Saying that efforts are currently being intensified to arrest the perpetrators, CP Falade reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the State.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the police and other security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious person or activity to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency number.
