Worshippers kidnapped during a church service in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, have regained their freedom after their families reportedly paid ₦9m to secure their release.
The victims were abducted from a Celestial Church in the agrarian community, throwing residents into panic and sparking widespread concern.
They were said to have been released on Monday evening at Ilado community following days of negotiations between the abductors and representatives of the families.
Sources close to the affected families disclosed that the kidnappers had initially demanded a much higher sum but later agreed to reduce their demand after prolonged bargaining, paving the way for the ₦9m payment.
Their release has brought relief to relatives and members of the community who had been gripped by fear since news of the abduction broke.
The development comes amid earlier disagreement over claims by the Ondo State Police Command that suspects had been apprehended and one of the victims rescued.
The families had publicly refuted the claim at the time, insisting that all those abducted remained in captivity.
As of the time of filing this report, the police command had yet to issue an official statement confirming the release of the victims or clarifying the circumstances surrounding the ransom payment.
Meanwhile, residents of Uso have expressed gratitude over the safe return of the worshippers and renewed calls on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and tackle rising cases of kidnapping, particularly around religious centres.