Ekiti Community Raises ₦25.5 Million, Food Supplies to Secure Release of Kidnapped Residents

Residents of a community in Ekiti State have recounted the enormous sacrifices they made to secure the freedom of their loved ones after they were abducted by armed kidnappers.

According to the community leadership, the abductors demanded a huge ransom alongside several other items before agreeing to release the victims. To meet the conditions, residents reportedly contributed funds and supplies through a collective effort.

The community eventually raised ₦25.5 million, while also providing five bags of rice, 150 litres of fuel, cartons of drinks, noodles, and other requested items.

The community leader explained that families, religious groups, and concerned individuals joined forces to gather the money and materials required, describing the experience as heartbreaking and financially draining.

He noted that many residents exhausted their savings, borrowed money, and relied on donations from well-wishers in a desperate effort to save the abducted victims.

Following the payment and delivery of the requested supplies, the kidnapped residents were eventually released and reunited with their families.

Community members expressed gratitude that the victims returned alive but lamented the emotional trauma and financial hardship the incident imposed on families and the entire community.

They also called on security agencies and the government to intensify efforts to tackle kidnapping and restore confidence in the safety of rural communities.

The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity across parts of Nigeria, where communities continue to face increasing threats from criminal gangs involved in kidnapping for ransom. Residents urged authorities to strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.