By Duchess Ifeoluwa 

Worshippers abducted from a Celestial Church in Uso community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, have regained their freedom after several days in captivity.

The victims were reportedly released on Monday evening at Ilado community following the payment of ₦9 million ransom by their families.

Sources close to the families confirmed that the worshippers were freed after negotiations with their abductors, bringing relief to relatives and residents who had been gripped by fear and anxiety since the incident occurred.

The abduction had sparked controversy after the Ondo State Police Command earlier announced that suspects had been arrested and one victim rescued.

The families, however, publicly disputed the claim at the time, insisting that all the victims remained in captivity.

It was gathered that the kidnappers initially demanded a much higher ransom before eventually agreeing to the ₦9 million payment after prolonged bargaining.

The circumstances surrounding the negotiation and the exact location of the victims’ captivity remain unclear.

As of press time, the police had not issued an official statement confirming the release or clarifying the discrepancy between earlier operational claims and the eventual ransom payment.

Meanwhile, residents of Uso community have expressed gratitude over the safe return of the worshippers but renewed calls for intensified security measures, particularly around places of worship and rural settlements vulnerable to criminal incursions.