Oyebanji visits freed Ekiti kidnap victims, takes over medical bills

By Rotimi Ojomoyela

ADO-EKITI — Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sunday visited victims of the recent kidnapping incident in Eda-Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, who are receiving treatment at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti.

Expressing gratitude over their safe release, the governor announced that the state government would cover the full cost of their medical treatment, rehabilitation and psychological support to aid their recovery and reintegration.

Oyebanji thanked God for the victims’ safe return and acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, security agencies, community groups and other Ekiti indigenes whose efforts contributed to securing their release.

He commended the security agencies for their professionalism during the rescue operation and also praised the Eda-Oniyo Progressives Association, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other well-meaning Ekiti indigenes for their support.

The governor urged residents to avoid politicising security challenges, stressing the need for unity in addressing issues affecting public safety.

He said the government had directed that all expenses related to the victims’ treatment would be borne by the state and added that psychologists would be engaged to support their emotional recovery.

Oyebanji also expressed satisfaction with the victims’ condition, noting that they were responding well to treatment, including a child who had regained consciousness.

He further commended the staff of EKSUTH, security agencies and the Hunters’ Association for their roles in the rescue operation and assured that the state government would continue to support efforts aimed at improving security.