Kidnapped Ondo Farmers Freed After Five Days, ₦5 Million Ransom Paid

The seven farmers who were abducted last Saturday while working on their farmland in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, have regained their freedom. The victims spent five days in captivity before being released by their abductors on Wednesday night.

According to a relative of one of the victims who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on condition of anonymity, the farmers were released after the kidnappers received a ransom. He revealed that although the abductors initially demanded N100 million, the amount was later reduced to N20 million. However, the families were only able to raise N5 million, along with some food items.

The victims were reportedly set free in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, after the ransom was delivered. Following their release, they were taken to the hospital for medical treatment to address the trauma and health challenges they faced during their ordeal. “They are now back with their families and receiving medical attention,” the relative confirmed.

Efforts by NAN to reach the Commander of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, for comments on the development were unsuccessful, as calls to his mobile phone went unanswered. The Amotekun Corps had earlier been involved in the search and rescue efforts.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said he was not yet aware of the victims’ release. Security agencies have yet to officially confirm the development or provide further details on the investigation into the kidnapping.