14 Nigerian Worshippers Rescued After 67 Days in Captivity

After 67 days of uncertainty and fear, 14 people abducted from a church service in Ekiti State, Nigeria, are finally home.

The victims were kidnapped on April 28 when gunmen stormed an outdoor crusade organized by Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo-Ekiti. The attackers killed the officiating pastor and took 15 worshippers into the forest, most of them women and children as young as two years old.

Sadly, one victim did not survive the ordeal. The remaining 14 were freed Friday after an intelligence-led rescue operation involving police, military forces, the Amotekun corps, and local hunters.

The kidnappers initially demanded one billion naira (about $1.1 million USD) for the hostages' release. They later reduced the ransom to 50 million naira, but refused to free the victims even after the community scraped together and paid 10.5 million naira.

The Bright Side

This rescue represents exactly the kind of outcome families pray for when loved ones disappear. Rather than accepting the kidnappers' terms, security forces chose patience and strategy.

The collaboration between official agencies and community members shows what's possible when everyone works together. Local hunters who know the terrain joined forces with trained security personnel, combining traditional knowledge with modern tactics.

Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu praised the teamwork that made the rescue possible. Ekiti State Commissioner of Police Falade Adegoroye Michael specifically thanked Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for supporting security agencies throughout the operation.

The survivors are now hospitalized receiving medical treatment for their physical and emotional trauma. While their road to recovery will take time, they're surrounded by family and proper care.

Authorities are continuing efforts to track down and arrest those responsible for the attack and kidnapping. Police are asking residents to stay alert and report suspicious activity through their emergency line.

Fourteen families who spent over two months wondering if they'd see their loved ones again finally have them back.