Worshippers abducted from a Celestial Church in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, last week have been released after several days in captivity.
The victims were freed on Monday evening at Ilado community following the payment of a ₦9 million ransom by their families. Family sources said the release was the result of negotiations with the abductors.
Earlier reports from the Ondo State Police Command stated that some suspects had been arrested and one victim rescued. Families of the abducted worshippers, however, disputed this, saying none of the victims had been freed at that time.
It was gathered that the kidnappers initially demanded a higher ransom but later accepted ₦9 million after negotiations. The details of the discussions and the location where the victims were held remain unclear.
As of press time, the police had not issued a statement confirming the release or addressing the discrepancy with their earlier claim.
Residents of Uso community have expressed relief over the return of the worshippers and called for improved security around churches and rural settlements.