36 Days in Captivity: Ekiti Residents Protest as 16 Abductees Remain Held Despite N10.5m Ransom Payment

Residents of Eda-Oniyo Community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State have staged a peaceful protest over the continued captivity of 16 kidnapped residents, despite the payment of N10.5 million ransom to their abductors.

The protesters, comprising community leaders, relatives of the victims, women, and youths, called on the Federal Government, Ekiti State Government, and Security Agencies to urgently intervene and secure the release of the abductees, who have reportedly spent 36 days in captivity.

Global Mirror News gathered that the victims were abducted on April 28, 2026, when suspected bandits invaded a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) during a church service in the community.

During the attack, the gunmen reportedly killed the presiding Pastor before abducting 16 worshippers and taking them to an unknown location.

According to residents, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N1 billion, which was later reduced to N150 million following negotiations. The demand was subsequently lowered to N50 million.

In a desperate effort to secure the victims’ freedom, members of the community reportedly contributed funds and raised N10.5 million, which was paid to the kidnappers. However, the abductors allegedly failed to release the victims after receiving the payment and have continued to demand additional money.

Speaking during the protest, a community leader, Ayodele Ajayi, expressed frustration over the situation and appealed for immediate Government intervention.

“Our people have been in captivity for 36 days. We contributed what we could as a community and paid N10.5 million, but the kidnappers refused to release them. Instead, they are demanding more money,” he said.

The protesters carried placards urging Security Agencies to intensify rescue efforts and bring the victims home safely. They lamented the hardship and emotional trauma being experienced by the affected families and the entire community.

Residents also expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the area, noting that fear and uncertainty have gripped the community since the attack occurred.

They appealed to relevant authorities not to abandon the victims and their families, stressing that urgent action is needed to prevent further tragedy.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from security agencies on fresh efforts to secure the release of the abductees.

The incident has further raised concerns about the growing wave of kidnappings and violent attacks targeting rural communities across Nigeria, with residents calling for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.