Ondo Church Worshippers Regain Freedom Following N5 Million Ransom Payment
In a distressing incident that has shaken the Uso community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, four Christian worshippers who were abducted from the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) have finally been released. The victims, who were taken during a church vigil last Wednesday, regained their freedom on Monday evening, March 2, after their families reportedly paid a ransom of N5 million to the kidnappers.
Details of the Abduction and Release
The ordeal began when suspected gunmen invaded the worship centre located along the busy Owo/Benin Expressway. During the vigil, the assailants stormed the church and forcefully marched the congregants into a nearby bush. One of the victims managed to escape shortly after the abduction, while an informant linked to the incident was subsequently apprehended by the police.
According to a family member who spoke on condition of anonymity, the worshippers were freed in the Ilado community after the ransom was paid. "The Christian worshippers have been released. They were freed this evening after we were able to raise N5 million for the abductors", the source confirmed. The family member added that the victims have been reunited with their loved ones, with some receiving medical treatment in hospital due to the trauma they endured while in captivity.
Ransom Negotiations and Police Confirmation
Initially, the kidnappers had demanded a staggering ransom of N100 million from the families of the victims before agreeing to release them. After intense negotiations, the amount was reduced to N5 million, which was eventually paid to secure the freedom of the worshippers.
The Ondo State Police Command has officially confirmed the release of the abducted individuals. DSP Jimoh Abayomi, the police spokesperson, addressed newsmen and verified that the victims are now safe. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region, particularly the threat of kidnapping targeting religious gatherings and communities.
The release comes barely a week after the abduction, underscoring the swift yet costly resolution faced by families in such crises. Authorities continue to investigate the case, with efforts focused on apprehending the perpetrators and preventing similar incidents in the future.
