Gunmen Abduct Seven Farmers in Ondo, Demand N100 Million Ransom

Seven farmers were kidnapped by gunmen on Saturday in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. The Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, confirmed the abduction and stated that efforts are underway to rescue the victims.

The State Commander of Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the victims were seized while working on their farm. He said operatives have since been deployed into the forests to track down the kidnappers and rescue the abducted farmers. “I can confirm the incident. Our men have been in the forests and are still there. I was there yesterday and we are hopeful that they will soon be rescued,” Adeleye said.

The Ondo State Police Command also confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said an operation is ongoing to apprehend the kidnappers and rescue the victims. “Yes, there is a case of kidnapping at the weekend in Itaogbolu and the police have launched an operation to ensure that those who are responsible are apprehended,” he said. He declined to confirm the exact number of victims, citing the ongoing nature of the rescue effort.

A source familiar with the incident said the farmers were abducted while harvesting palm fruits. The kidnappers later contacted some of the victims’ families and demanded a ransom of N100 million. “We didn’t hear from them until Sunday evening when the kidnappers contacted one of the family members,” the source said, adding that negotiations with the abductors are ongoing.