• Eda-Oniyo churches shut as govt, police intensify efforts to rescue abducted victims
• Abductors reduce ransom to N150 million

A former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has condemned the recent wave of killings and kidnappings targeting worshippers in Ekiti State, describing the incidents as a reflection of worsening insecurity in the country.

In a statement, Adebayo expressed concern over the safety of citizens, particularly those attending religious gatherings, stressing that Nigerians should not have to live in fear.

He attributed the recurring attacks to what he described as a failure of governance, accusing the authorities of falling short in their responsibility to protect lives and property.

However, church activities were suspended yesterday across Eda-Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Council of Ekiti State as the community observed a solemn day of mourning for a pastor reportedly killed during a recent bandit attack.

All fifteen churches in the town remained closed in honour of the deceased cleric and in solidarity with families of the abducted members of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eda-Oniyo.

The Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Falade Michael, who led a delegation of senior officers on an assessment visit to the community, assured residents of intensified operations to track down the perpetrators and rescue the abducted victims.

Also, officials of the Ekiti State Government visited Eda-Oniyo to commiserate with the people and evaluate the security situation.

They reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security agencies.

Meanwhile, the kidnappers have reduced their ransom demand from N1 billion to N150 million.

According to the Chairman of the Eda-Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ajayi, who spoke with a delegation from the state government, led by the Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, the victims remain in captivity six days after the incident.

“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 N150 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,” he said.

The traditional ruler of the town, the Eleda of Eda-Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, told the deputy governor that only prompt government intervention could address the spate of abduction and killings in the community.

He stressed the need to strengthen security across the local council, particularly around border areas adjoining Kwara State.