The worshippers abducted from a Celestial Church in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, have regained their freedom, after paying ransom.
The victims, numbering about six, were released on Monday evening at Ilado community after their families allegedly paid a ransom of N9 million to the abductors.
Sources close to the families confirmed that the victims were freed almost one week after abduction, bringing relief to relatives and residents of the community who had been gripped by fear and anxiety since the incident.
The release came amid earlier controversy over police claims that suspects had been arrested and one victim rescued, claims which were publicly disputed by the families, who insisted that all the victims were still in captivity at the time.
Reports said that the abductors initially demanded a significantly higher ransom but later agreed to release the victims after negotiations, leading to the payment of N9 million.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the Ondo State Police Command on the release of the victims or the circumstances surrounding the ransom payment.
Residents of Uso community have expressed gratitude for the safe return of the worshippers, while renewing calls on security agencies to intensify efforts to curb kidnapping and improve safety, particularly around places of worship.
The incident has once again underscored growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the state and the heavy financial burden placed on families forced to negotiate with criminal elements for the freedom of their loved ones.