66 Days After Abduction, Kidnapped Eda Oniyo Ekiti Worshippers Regain Freedom; One Dies in Captivity

The worshippers abducted during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) crusade in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have regained their freedom after spending 66 days in captivity.

The victims were released around midnight on Friday and are currently receiving medical attention at a hospital, where they are undergoing evaluation and treatment.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ekiti State Police Command, Sunday Abutu, confirmed the victims release to Sky News Hub correspondent in a WhatsApp chat on Saturday. However, he did not state how the victims were rescued or provide details of the operation that led to their release.

Sources familiar with the development confirmed that one of the 15 abducted worshippers died while in captivity. The remaining survivors are said to be in critical physical and emotional condition following their prolonged ordeal.

The sources also said the victims' release was secured without any visible intervention from government authorities or security agencies.

The victims were abducted on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, when suspected armed men stormed an open-air crusade organised by the Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti. During the attack, the officiating pastor was killed, while 15 worshippers were kidnapped and taken to an undisclosed location.