Four worshippers abducted from the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Ondo State, have regained their freedom after five days in captivity, amid conflicting reports regarding the payment of a multi-million naira ransom.
The four worshippers abducted from the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso, Ondo State, were released on Monday evening, ending a five-day ordeal in the hands of gunmen. The victims were part of a group targeted during a raid in the early hours of Wednesday, which initially saw the abduction of several members, including three pregnant women who were later released after being tortured. DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the development on Tuesday morning, stating that the victims are expected to undergo formal debriefing to assist security agencies in tracking down the perpetrators.
While the police have remained silent on the details of the release, local reports suggest that a ransom was paid to secure the worshippers’ freedom. Conflicting accounts indicate that the kidnappers initially demanded between N40 million and N100 million, eventually settling for amounts ranging from N5 million to N9 million provided by the victims’ families. Addressing the speculation, DSP Jimoh stated: “The Command acknowledges the release of four victims involved in the kidnapping incident at Uso. At this time, it is not known whether ransom was paid.”
In response to the incident, the Ondo State Police Command has announced a reinforcement of security measures within the Uso axis to prevent future occurrences. The Commissioner of Police has ordered a swift investigation, urging the public to remain calm and go about their daily routines. According to the spokesperson, “The CP reassures the good people of Ondo State that robust security measures have been implemented to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and urges residents to continue with their lawful activities without fear.”