Seven farmers who were kidnapped last Saturday in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been freed after spending five days with their abductors.
The victims, who were working on their farmland when they were taken, were released on Wednesday night in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State. A family member of one of the victims confirmed the development on Friday.
“I’m happy to tell you that the kidnappers released all seven farmers on Wednesday night. They are back with their families,” the relative said.
He explained that the kidnappers first demanded a ransom of 100 million naira, but later reduced it to 20 million. In the end, the families were only able to gather 5 million naira.
“They were released after collecting the 5 million and some food items,” he added. “The victims are now in the hospital for medical attention.”
Attempts by the News Agency of Nigeria to reach the commander of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, Adetunji Adeleye, were not successful as he did not answer phone calls.
When contacted, the police spokesperson in the state, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said he was not yet aware of the release.
