Ekiti Governor Meets Rescued Victims, Speaks Against Politicizing Insecurity

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, visited the victims of the Eda Oniyo-Ekiti kidnapping at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday. They are receiving medical care after their release.

The victims were taken in April while attending an open-air crusade by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). They were rescued around midnight on Friday after spending 67 days in captivity. After their rescue, they were taken to EKSUTH for urgent medical attention. Sadly, one of the 15 victims died during the captivity. The remaining survivors are said to be in critical physical and emotional condition.

The Governor's visit came less than 24 hours after the victims arrived at the hospital under his instruction. He was joined by Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, and Professor Oladele Olatunya, Acting Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee. Mr Oyebanji condemned the kidnapping and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting lives and properties in the state.

He urged residents not to politicize issues of security and kidnapping. He emphasized that these matters should not be taken lightly. Mr Oyebanji promised that the state would take strong actions to protect citizens and make it hard for criminals to operate.

While sympathizing with the victims, the Governor expressed gratitude for their safe return. He assured that the state government would cover all their medical expenses and provide psychological support to help them recover and reintegrate into society. He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support in enhancing regional security.

The Governor praised the security agencies for their teamwork in the rescue operation. He recognized the roles of traditional rulers, community leaders, and the Eda Oniyo Community Development Association in gathering intelligence. He noted that all survivors were stable and responding to treatment, including a child who had been unconscious. The Governor condemned the attack on worshippers as unacceptable. He stressed that everyone has a role to play in ensuring safety.

A relative of the victims, Akin Oluwayemi, spoke on their behalf. He thanked the Governor and security agencies for their efforts. He also called for a stronger security presence in border communities to prevent such incidents in the future.