Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Visits Kidnap Victims, Promises Comprehensive Care

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sunday paid a visit to the individuals recently freed from captivity following the Eda Oniyo kidnap incident. The victims are currently receiving medical attention at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado-Ekiti, after enduring approximately 66 days in abduction. The group, which included women and children, secured their release in the early hours of Saturday. Their ordeal began on April 28, when they were seized during a programme at a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo. During the attack, a pastor was tragically killed, and 16 people were taken into the bush by their abductors. One of the captives unfortunately died while in detention, leaving 15 who regained their freedom on Saturday.

Governor Oyebanji toured the emergency and children’s wards where the victims are recuperating. He expressed significant relief at their safe return, noting their stable condition and positive response to medical treatment. The governor stated, “I am happy that they are back. I am happy that the little child who was unconscious yesterday (Saturday) is now conscious. All of them are stable, and they are responding to medical treatment. I commend the staff of EKSUTH for a job well done.” He further assured, “Since yesterday (Saturday), we have brought them here to take care of them and ensure that they are medically sound. I have instructed that the state will bear the cost of their treatment and everything that happens between now and when they leave here. I will also talk to psychologists to talk to them with a view to integrating them with their family members.”

Oyebanji extended his gratitude to God for the victims' release and acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for his support. He also commended the diligent efforts of security agencies and local hunters. The governor specifically highlighted, “I must particularly place on record my commendation for the efforts of members of the Eda Oniyo Progressives Association, the Christian Association of Nigeria and other well-spirited indigenes of Ekiti State who supported us in ensuring that the kidnap victims were finally released.”

He urged the public to refrain from using security challenges for political gain, emphasizing the necessity of collective responsibility. “I will advise our people that when things like this happen, people should not weaponise it or play politics with it. It was so shocking that some people decided to play politics with this unfortunate incident,” Oyebanji remarked.

Recall that on Saturday, Governor Oyebanji had already directed the EKSUTH management to provide thorough medical screening and treatment for the freed individuals. He also mandated the state Ministry of Health and Human Services to oversee their welfare, with the state government committed to covering all associated medical expenses. According to a statement released by Yinka Oyebode, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, the victims will remain under medical observation until they are deemed physically and psychologically fit for reintegration with their families.