Oyebanji orders free medical care for freed kidnap victims

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, following the release of the Eda Oniyo kidnap victims, has directed the management of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, to provide comprehensive medical screening and treatment for the victims.

The governor, according to a statement in Ado Ekiti by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Yinka Oyebode, on Saturday, also instructed the State Ministry of Health and Human Services to take full responsibility for overseeing the welfare and wellbeing of the victims, with the State Government covering all medical expenses incurred during their treatment.

The victims, who regained freedom from their captors in the early hours of Saturday, were kidnapped at Eda Oniyo in the Ilejemeje Local Government area of Ekiti State on April 28, 2026, during a programme at Christ Apostolic Church in the community.

The kidnappers had, during the attack, shot dead a pastor in the church in April, while one of the kidnapped persons also died in captivity.

Oyebode stated that the freed persons, currently receiving care at the teaching hospital, “will remain under medical supervision until they are certified fit for reintegration with their families”.

He stated that “Governor Oyebanji expressed his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support in ensuring the safe return of the victims.”

He also commended heads of all security agencies in the state, the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, leaders of the Eda Oniyo community, and the State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, along with other stakeholders, for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

While reiterating his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, the governor urged individuals who are politicizing the unfortunate incident on social media to desist and instead collaborate with the government to build a safer and more prosperous state.

Oyebanji also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of one of the victims who tragically lost his life while in captivity.