Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sunday visited the worshippers from Eda-Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Government Area who recently regained their freedom after spending more than two months in captivity.

The victims, who were abducted during a deadly attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) revival programme in April, are currently receiving medical treatment at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti.

During the visit, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the safe return of the victims and assured them of the state government's unwavering commitment to their recovery and welfare.

The governor reiterated that his administration would bear the full cost of the victims' medical treatment and provide the necessary psychological support to aid their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. He also commended security agencies for their coordinated efforts, which led to the successful rescue of the abductees after more than 60 days in captivity.

Oyebanji described the abduction as a tragic incident, stressing that no citizen should be subjected to such an ordeal while exercising the constitutional right to worship. He urged residents to avoid politicising security matters and instead support ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property across the state.

The governor also acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders, local hunters, the Amotekun Corps, and other security stakeholders whose collaboration was instrumental in securing the victims' release.

The worshippers were kidnapped on April 28 when armed men attacked an open-air church revival in Eda-Oniyo, killing the officiating pastor before whisking away the worshippers into the forest. While most of the victims regained their freedom, one of them reportedly died in captivity.

Relatives of the rescued worshippers expressed appreciation to the governor and security agencies for their efforts, while calling for enhanced security in border communities to prevent future attacks.