Ekiti monarchs push for night church ban after ₦1bn ransom demand for abducted worshippers

Traditional rulers in Ekiti State have called for an immediate ban on night church services following a deadly attack in Eda Oniyo community, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, where worshippers were abducted during a late-night crusade.

The incident, which occurred during an evening prayer session, left a pastor dead and several congregants, including women and children, kidnapped by armed attackers.

The Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Joseph Awolola, confirmed that the abductors have made contact with families of the victims, demanding a ₦1 billion ransom.

“They told us they want ₦1 billion. They are also telling us that they are still on Eda land,” the monarch said, expressing concern over the continued presence of the attackers in nearby forests.

In response, monarchs across affected communities are now advocating a ban on overnight religious gatherings, arguing that such activities expose residents to avoidable security risks amid rising attacks in the region.

The monarchs also criticised the delayed response of security agencies, stating that it took over an hour for operatives to arrive at the scene, by which time the attackers had fled into surrounding forests.

The attack has intensified fears in Ekiti and neighbouring states, including Kwara and Kogi, where similar abductions have been reported in recent months.

Security officials, including the Ekiti State Special Adviser on Security, retired Brigadier General Ebenezer Ogundana, and the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, have visited the community to assess the situation.
Ogundana assured residents that a coordinated rescue operation involving security forces, local vigilantes, hunters and the Amotekun Corps was ongoing.
“We are all aware of what is happening in Kwara and Kogi states. We must face the reality on ground and act accordingly,” he said.
He added: “When you see something, say something… We are on top of the situation, and by God’s grace, the victims will be rescued and the perpetrators arrested.”
Police authorities have confirmed the attack and said efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and apprehend the suspects as fear continues to grip the affected communities.