Kidnapped Ondo Farmers Freed After Five Days in Captivity

The seven farmers who were abducted last Saturday while tending to their farmland in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been released.

Their freedom was secured on Wednesday night, five days after they were taken. A relative of one of the victims, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday under the condition of anonymity, confirmed the development.

“We are relieved to have them back. All seven were released on Wednesday night and have reunited with their families,” the relative said.

It was revealed that the abductors had initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million. The figure was later reduced to ₦20 million, but only ₦5 million could be raised by the families.

The victims were reportedly freed in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, following the payment and the delivery of unspecified food items. They are currently receiving medical care.

Efforts to obtain a response from the Ondo State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, were unsuccessful as calls to his phone went unanswered.

When contacted, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, stated, “I’m not aware of their release.”