Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sunday visited victims of the Eda Oniyo kidnap incident at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, where they are currently receiving treatment following their release.
The Governor’s visit came barely 24 hours after the victims were admitted to the hospital on his directive.
Governor Oyebanji, who was received by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mrs. Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, and the Acting Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Prof. Oladele Olatunya, strongly condemned the incident, assuring residents that decisive steps are being taken to safeguard lives and property and make the state inhospitable to criminal elements.
He cautioned residents against politicising security and kidnapping issues, stressing that matters of security must not be trivialised.
While commiserating with the victims in their wards, the Governor expressed gratitude to God for their safe return. He described their ordeal as painful and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
Governor Oyebanji reiterated that the state government would bear the full cost of the victims’ medical treatment and provide psychological support to aid their recovery and reintegration into society. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
The Governor praised security agencies for their coordinated efforts, which led to the successful rescue of the victims. He also appreciated traditional rulers, community leaders, and members of the Eda Oniyo Community Development Association for providing valuable intelligence during the operation.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, the Governor said it was unacceptable for individuals to be attacked while worshipping, adding that ensuring public safety requires collective responsibility.
He expressed satisfaction with the victims’ condition, noting that all of them were stable and responding well to treatment, including a child who had earlier been unconscious but had since regained consciousness.
Speaking on behalf of the victims, a relative, Mr. Akin Oluwayemi, expressed appreciation to the Governor and security agencies for their efforts while calling for a sustained security presence in border communities to prevent future occurrences.
In a related development, Governor Oyebanji also settled the medical bills of three indigent patients at the hospital who had been unable to pay after being discharged.
The Governor, who noticed the patients while leaving the ward, immediately offset their bills—amounting to more than two million naira—and directed that they be discharged to reunite with their families.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Fasuba Taiwo expressed gratitude to the Governor and offered prayers for his family and administration.