By Peace Erewunmi

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has visited the victims of the Eda Oniyo kidnapping who are receiving treatment at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, following their release after spending 67 days in captivity. The governor used the visit to reassure residents of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property while urging that security matters should not be politicised.

The victims were abducted in April 2026 when suspected gunmen attacked an open-air revival programme organised by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area. During the attack, the presiding pastor was killed, and several worshippers, including women and children, were taken into the forest. One of the victims later died in captivity before the remaining worshippers regained their freedom.

Governor Oyebanji visited the survivors less than 24 hours after they were admitted to EKSUTH on his directive. Speaking with the victims and medical personnel, he expressed gratitude that the survivors were responding well to treatment, noting in particular that a young child who had initially been unconscious had regained consciousness.

The governor announced that the Ekiti State Government would bear the full cost of the victims’ medical treatment, rehabilitation, and psychological care. He explained that beyond physical recovery, the survivors would require counselling and emotional support to help them reintegrate into their families and communities after their traumatic experience.

Oyebanji also cautioned residents against turning security challenges into political disputes. According to him, insecurity affects everyone regardless of political affiliation, and protecting lives should remain a collective responsibility. He urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence and supporting ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities across the state.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the police, local security outfits, members of the Hunters’ Association, and community stakeholders for their contributions to the successful rescue operation. He described the release of the victims as the result of sustained collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, and local residents.

While acknowledging the pain caused by the incident, Oyebanji assured residents that his administration would continue strengthening security across Ekiti State to ensure that criminal elements find no safe haven. He reiterated his government’s resolve to invest in intelligence gathering, community policing, and cooperation with federal security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

The visit comes as residents of Eda Oniyo and neighbouring communities continue to celebrate the return of the worshippers while mourning those who lost their lives during the attack. Community leaders have expressed appreciation for the rescue efforts and called for sustained security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.