One Confirmed Dead as Ekiti Kidnap Victims Regain Freedom

One of the worshippers abducted during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) crusade in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, has been confirmed dead, while the remaining victims have regained their freedom after weeks in captivity.

The victims were released around midnight on Friday and have since been taken to a hospital for medical examination and treatment following their ordeal.

Sources disclosed that one of the 15 abducted worshippers died while in the custody of the kidnappers, while the surviving victims are currently receiving medical attention due to their poor physical condition and emotional trauma.

The circumstances surrounding the victim’s death have not been officially disclosed.

Reports indicated that the victims secured their freedom without any visible intervention from government authorities or security agencies.

Details surrounding their release, including whether any ransom was paid, were still unclear as of the time of filing this report.

The abduction occurred on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, when suspected gunmen invaded an open-air crusade organised by the Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti.

The attack threw the community into panic as worshippers fled for safety.

During the incident, the officiating pastor was shot dead by the attackers, while 15 members of the congregation were forcefully taken away into the surrounding forest by the armed men.

The incident attracted widespread condemnation from residents, religious organisations and community leaders, who called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.

The attack also renewed concerns over the rising cases of kidnapping and violent crimes targeting religious gatherings and rural communities in different parts of the country.

Residents of Eda Oniyo-Ekiti have continued to express grief over the death of the pastor and the worshipper who died in captivity, while welcoming the safe return of the other victims.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement regarding the circumstances of the victims’ release or the ongoing efforts to arrest the kidnappers.

The latest development brings relief to the affected families, although the loss of one victim has further deepened the tragedy surrounding the attack on the church crusade.