The pupils and educators from the Apostolic Faith Montessori School in Emure Ekiti, who were abducted on January 29, have been successfully released. Tragically, the driver, who was also among the kidnapped individuals, was killed and his body set ablaze by the assailants. Although the abductors had initially demanded N10 million for each of the 10 victims, it remains undisclosed whether any ransom was paid.
Efforts to reach the police spokesman in Ekiti State, Abutu Sunday, proved unsuccessful, but community sources confirmed the release of the victims to Channels Television. A senior police officer later corroborated this information.
Regarding the deceased driver, details indicate that his charred remains were discovered in the bush. The Ekiti State Government also confirmed the release, with the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode, reporting that the pupils and teachers were freed on February 4 and brought to the Elemure Palace around 4 am.
Expressing gratitude for the successful operation, Governor Biodun Oyebanji thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support, specifically acknowledging Tinubu’s directives that expedited the search and rescue mission. The governor commended the security agencies for their collaborative efforts and the support received from Ekitikete home and abroad during the security crisis.
Governor Oyebanji emphasized the traumatic experience faced by the children during their captivity, directing the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, to ensure they receive proper medical treatment and post-trauma therapy at the state Teaching Hospital in Ado Ekiti.
The governor, along with Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, maintained vigilance until 3.00 am to secure the release of the children. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to eradicating crime in the state, pledging to make the environment unbearable for criminals and assuring that those responsible for the killings of two Ekiti traditional rulers would be apprehended and face the full force of the law. Governor Oyebanji urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities in their communities.
