The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Ondo State chapter, on Tuesday, called for immediate action from the state government and security agencies to secure the safe release of the choristers of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Igan, Akure, the state capital.
The Chairman of CAN in Ondo State, Revd. Father Anselm Ologunwa, who expressed concern over the incessant cases of kidnapping within the Ifon axis in the Ose Local Government Area of the state, emphasised the need for urgent intervention to put an end to such criminal activities.
Ologunwa described the abduction of the 25 choristers as an act that goes against the principles of humanity.
During a sympathy visit to the Regional Superintendent of CAC, Pastor Benjamin Akanmu, the Reverend Father, assured that all Christians in the state stand united in their prayers and efforts to secure the release of the abducted choristers.
The CAN Chairman further stated that those responsible for the heinous act would face the wrath of God.
Ologunwa also commended the church, security agencies, and the families of the victims for their resilience and efforts in dealing with the aftermath of the incident.
He acknowledged the collaborative efforts being made to ensure the safe return of the abducted choristers.
In his remarks, the CAC Regional Superintendent, Pastor Akanmu, stated that the group of choristers was en route to Ifon to participate in the funeral wake of the church organist’s father, which took place last Friday.
He explained that a five-member gang of kidnappers intercepted them at a section of the road that was in poor condition.
The CAC pastor added that the kidnappers fired shots at the vehicle in which the choristers were travelling and then forced them into the nearby bush.
He added that, with the grace of God, eight of the choristers managed to escape from the abductors.
However, the remaining victims are still being held captive by the suspected kidnappers.
Pastor Akanmu further revealed that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N50 million from both the church and the family members of the abducted choristers.
