The seven farmers who were abducted by gunmen while working on their farmland in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, have regained their freedom after spending five days in captivity.
The victims were seized on Saturday by unidentified gunmen, sparking concern and tension among residents and family members. A relative of one of the abductees, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on condition of anonymity, confirmed the release of the farmers late Wednesday night.
“I’m happy to tell you that the kidnappers released all the seven farmers on Wednesday night. They are back to their families,” the source said.
He revealed that although the abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million, the amount was later negotiated down to ₦20 million. The families, however, were only able to raise ₦5 million along with some food items, which were delivered before the victims were released in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
“The victims are currently receiving medical attention at a hospital,” the source added, without disclosing the specific health facility.
Efforts to reach the Ondo State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, for confirmation were unsuccessful, as calls to his mobile line went unanswered.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said he was not yet aware of the victims’ release.
The incident is one of several recent cases that have raised renewed concerns about the security situation in agrarian communities in Ondo and neighbouring states.
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