Kidnappers who killed a pastor of the Christ Apostolic Church at Eda-Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State and abducted 16 worshippers have reduced their ransom demand from ₦1 billion to ₦150 million.
The victims were said to still be in captivity six days after the attack.
The Chairman of the Eda-Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr. Rufus Ajayi, disclosed this when a delegation of the Ekiti State Government, led by the Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, visited the community.
Ajayi said the abducted worshippers included women and young children, adding that efforts by the community to negotiate with the kidnappers had not been successful.
He said, “Sixteen people abducted six days ago are still with their captors. There are many women and young children among them. The kidnappers are now demanding a minimum of ₦150 million as ransom.
“The community made an offer, but it was rejected. We are appealing to the government to assist us. This is an emergency situation.”
Ajayi said the community was in distress and needed urgent support from the government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
The traditional ruler of the town, the Eleda of Eda-Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, told the deputy governor that only prompt government intervention could stop the rising cases of abductions and killings in the area.
The monarch said the attack had left residents traumatised and fearful.
He called for a stronger security presence across Ilejemeje Local Government Area, especially in border communities adjoining Kwara State.
Oba Awolola also commended the state government for identifying with the community during what he described as a period of grief.
The Ekiti State Government condemned the attack, describing the killings and abductions as senseless and unacceptable.
The government assured residents that measures were being taken to protect lives and property across the state.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji said his administration was responding swiftly and proactively to the security situation.
He urged residents to support security agencies with useful information and avoid activities that could expose them to danger.
Oyebanji advised religious centres to suspend night vigils for the time being as part of precautionary measures.
He said, “Let us suspend night vigils for now. Religious activities should be held during the day, and we trust God will answer our prayers.”
The governor also warned residents against collaborating with criminal elements.
He urged informants and those aiding kidnappers to desist, saying such actions endanger communities and damage the image of the state.
