Ekiti covers medical bills of freed kidnap victims

The Ekiti State Government has approved free medical treatment for victims recently rescued from kidnappers in Eda Oniyo, directing that they receive comprehensive healthcare before reuniting with their families.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji ordered the management of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, to conduct full medical screening and provide necessary treatment for all the victims.

The directive was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode.

According to the statement, the governor also instructed the State Ministry of Health and Human Services to oversee the welfare of the victims throughout their recovery, with the state government footing all medical expenses.

The victims are currently receiving treatment at EKSUTH and will remain under medical supervision until doctors certify them fit to return to their families.

Oyebanji commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting efforts that led to the victims’ safe rescue.

He also praised security agencies in the state, the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, leaders of the Eda Oniyo community, the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, and other stakeholders for their contributions to securing the victims’ release.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged residents to support government efforts to improve security.

He also cautioned against politicising the kidnapping incident on social media, calling on citizens to work collectively towards ensuring a safer Ekiti.

Oyebanji further expressed condolences to the family of one of the victims who died while in captivity.