Worshippers freed after church abduction
Five worshippers abducted during an attack on a Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) branch in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have regained their freedom days after the incident.
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers had on February 25, 2026, stormed the church during an early morning prayer session, abducting six worshippers.
Police said one of the victims was rescued shortly after the attack, while the remaining five were taken to an unknown destination.
Families say ransom was paid after negotiations
Family members of the victims said the worshippers were released on Monday evening at Ilado community after negotiations with the kidnappers.
According to an anonymous family source, the kidnappers initially demanded ₦40 million for each victim before negotiations reduced the demand.
The source said the victims were eventually freed after ₦9 million was allegedly paid as ransom.
Authorities have not officially confirmed whether ransom was paid.
Police confirm attack and rescue operation
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the church attack and the abduction of the worshippers.
In a statement, the command’s spokesman Abayomi Jimoh said police immediately launched a rescue operation in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups.
Jimoh said the operation led to the rescue of one victim and the arrest of one suspect shortly after the attack.
He added that security agencies are continuing efforts to track down the remaining kidnappers involved in the incident.
Rising kidnapping concerns in Ondo
The church abduction is the latest in a series of kidnapping incidents reported in Ondo State since the beginning of the year.
Security reports indicate that several communities in Akure North, Owo Local Government Area and the Akoko axis have experienced increased kidnapping activity in recent months.
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, recently disclosed that 256 criminal suspects have been arrested across the state since January 2026, including 30 suspected kidnappers.
Communities call for stronger security presence
The church attack has renewed concerns among residents and religious leaders over the safety of worshippers during religious gatherings.
Community leaders have urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and patrols across rural communities where kidnappers often operate.
For many residents in the affected areas, the release of the victims brings relief — but also underscores the continuing threat posed by kidnapping networks across the region.
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