Bandits who abducted worshippers from the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Igan, in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have reportedly demanded a ransom of N100 million per victim. Between 30 and 35 worshippers were taken during a violent attack on the church during its Tuesday evening service.
Pastor Lawrence Bamidele confirmed the situation, stating that the kidnappers began contacting the victims’ families using phones taken from the abductees. The first group of 11 victims has been asked to pay N100 million each for their release.
Community leaders also reported systematic contact from the kidnappers. Chief Olusegun Olukotun, whose four family members were among those abducted, noted that some families had already received demands.
The traditional ruler of the town, Oba Busari Olarewaju, has called for urgent government intervention to ensure the victims’ safe return, praising the military’s presence following a visit from the state governor but stressing that more action is needed.
Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi stated that they had not received any official reports regarding ransom demands. However, she affirmed that tactical teams, alongside military personnel, were actively working to secure the victims’ release.
The attack has raised alarm about the escalating banditry in Kwara State, a region traditionally seen as safer in Nigeria’s North-Central zone. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) condemned the assault, calling it a grim reminder of the insecurity faced by Christian communities in the country. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh expressed solidarity with the victims and urged for a thorough investigation into the attack.
Community members voiced their frustration over perceived neglect by local authorities, with accusations directed at the local council chairman for inadequate support for security measures. The chair’s spokesperson refuted these claims, asserting that the council acted promptly following the incident.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by communities in Nigeria, particularly in relation to banditry and targeted violence against religious groups.
