Residents of Eda-Oniyo Community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State have staged a peaceful protest over the continued captivity of 16 residents abducted by suspected bandits.
The protesters, made up of community leaders, women, youths and relatives of the victims, called on the Federal Government, Ekiti State Government and security agencies to secure their release.
The victims were kidnapped on April 28, 2026, when gunmen attacked a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) during a service. The attackers reportedly killed the presiding pastor and abducted 16 worshippers.
Residents said the kidnappers initially demanded ₦1 billion before reducing the ransom. The community later raised and paid ₦10.5 million, but the victims were not released.
Speaking during the protest, community representative Ayodele Ajayi said the abductees had spent 36 days in captivity and that the kidnappers were now demanding ₦50 million.
He said most of the victims are women, while two are young boys.
Another resident, Mrs Ajayi, said children and an elderly woman are among those still being held. She appealed to the government to intervene and rescue the victims.
Also speaking, Ayodele Oni said community members travelled through forests in parts of Kwara and Kogi states to deliver the ransom and other items demanded by the kidnappers.
According to him, the abductors collected the money and supplies but later demanded more.
The protesters also called for a security post in the community and a military base near the Ekiti-Kwara boundary to improve security in the area.
