Kidnappers Hold onto Victims in Ekiti Even After ₦11m Ransom Paid

More than 30 kidnapped victims remain in captivity in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti State, despite a ransom payment of ₦11 million by residents, deepening fears in the community.

The victims were abducted about 32 days ago during a church prayer session in the town.

Residents said the attackers stormed the gathering and killed a visiting pastor from Osun State before taking dozens of worshippers away.

Families and neighbours later raised ₦11 million, along with bags of rice and other items demanded by the kidnappers.

However, the victims have not been released, even after the payment was delivered.

Families Face Ongoing Demands

Relatives say the abductors continue to make fresh demands, adding to the distress of affected families.

A woman whose three children are among those held described the situation as unbearable.

She said the kidnappers now request ₦20,000 airtime cards whenever families call to check on the victims.

The prolonged captivity has left many households in grief, with some families displaced and struggling to cope.

Kidnapping for ransom has become a growing security challenge across Nigeria, affecting both rural and urban communities.

Residents are appealing to authorities to act quickly and secure the release of those still in captivity.

They want support from the <a href=”https://www.npf.gov.ng”>Nigeria Police Force</a> and other security agencies to track down the perpetrators.

Ekiti State, traditionally seen as relatively calm compared to northern regions, has recorded rising cases of abduction in recent years.

The incident has shaken confidence in both local security and the police, especially as victims remain held after ransom was paid.

Community leaders say urgent action is needed to prevent further attacks and restore safety in the area.

As of the latest reports, the victims have spent over a month in captivity, with no confirmed timeline for their release.

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