Seven Farmers Abducted in Ondo, Kidnappers Demand ₦100 Million Ransom

The Ondo State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, has confirmed the abduction of seven farmers in Itaogbolu, located in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

According to reports, the victims were seized on Saturday while working on a farm, and the kidnappers have since demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for their release.

Speaking in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, Adeleye said a coordinated search-and-rescue operation has been ongoing since the incident occurred.

“I can confirm the incident. Our operatives have been combing the forest since Saturday, and I personally joined the operation on Sunday. We remain hopeful that the victims will be rescued soon,” he said.

The Police Public Relations Officer for the state, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, also confirmed the development, stating that a joint security team has been deployed to secure the victims’ release and apprehend the perpetrators.

“There was indeed a report of kidnapping in Itaogbolu over the weekend. While we cannot confirm the exact number of those abducted at this time due to the ongoing rescue effort, we are doing everything possible to ensure their safe return,” Ayanlade said.

Community sources revealed that the farmers were harvesting palm fruits when they were attacked and taken away. The kidnappers reportedly contacted the victims’ families on Sunday evening, demanding ₦100 million to secure their release.

Negotiations, according to one source, are still ongoing.