Residents of Eda Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest over the continued captivity of 16 worshippers abducted by gunmen more than a month ago.
The protesters, including community leaders, women, youths, relatives and friends of the victims, appealed to the Federal Government, Ekiti State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abductees.
The victims were kidnapped on April 28 during an evening service at a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo after armed men invaded the church and killed the presiding pastor.
According to residents, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦1 billion before reducing it to ₦150 million and later ₦50 million. The community reportedly raised and paid ₦10.5 million, but the victims remain in captivity.
Carrying placards with messages calling for urgent government intervention, the demonstrators expressed frustration over the prolonged detention of their loved ones and the increasing demands from the abductors.
Community members said the victims include mostly women, two young boys, an elderly woman and several mothers whose absence has left families in distress.
Residents alleged that despite paying the ransom and supplying food items and other materials requested by the kidnappers, the abductors have continued to demand additional money.
They also called for improved security measures in the area, including the establishment of a functional divisional police headquarters, deployment of forest guards and the creation of a military base near the Ekiti-Kwara border.
The protesters urged authorities to act swiftly, warning that the continued captivity of the victims has subjected families and the entire community to severe emotional and psychological trauma.
The victims have now spent over five weeks in captivity, with residents expressing fears for their safety and well-being as efforts continue to secure their release.
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