Governor Oyebanji Visits Rescued Abductees at EKSUTH
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, visited the victims of the Eda Oniyo-Ekiti abduction at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday. The victims are currently receiving medical treatment following their release after 67 days in captivity.
The worshippers were abducted in April while attending an open-air crusade organized by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). They were rescued around midnight on Friday, and one of the 15 victims died during captivity. The remaining survivors are reported to be in critical physical and emotional condition.
Governor Condemns Incident, Vows to Protect Lives
Governor Oyebanji condemned the attack on worshippers as unacceptable. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. He urged residents to avoid politicizing security and kidnapping issues, stressing that such matters must not be trivialized.
Mr. Oyebanji vowed that the state would continue to implement decisive measures to safeguard citizens and ensure it remains inhospitable to criminal elements.
State Government to Bear Full Medical Costs
The Governor pledged that the state government would bear the full cost of the victims' medical treatment and provide psychological support to aid their recovery and reintegration into society. He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his support in strengthening the regional security architecture.
Governor Oyebanji praised the security agencies for their coordinated efforts in the rescue. He acknowledged the contribution of traditional rulers, community leaders, and the Eda Oniyo Community Development Association in providing intelligence.
Survivors Stable, Including Previously Unconscious Child
Noting that all survivors were stable and responding to treatment—including a child who had previously been unconscious—the Governor emphasized that collective responsibility is essential for safety.
Speaking on behalf of the victims, a relative, Akin Oluwayemi, expressed appreciation to the Governor and security agencies and called for a sustained security presence in border communities to prevent future occurrences.
Governor Settles Medical Bills for Indigent Patients
In a related development, Governor Oyebanji settled the outstanding medical bills of three indigent patients who had been unable to pay for their care upon discharge. After noticing them as he left the ward, he offset the bills—amounting to over N2 million—and directed that they be discharged to reunite with their families.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Fasuba Taiwo expressed gratitude to the Governor and offered prayers for his family and administration.
