The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria has confirmed that ransom was paid to secure the release of three abducted members, bringing an end to a tense kidnapping incident that affected five farmers in Ogun State and Oyo State.
In a statement issued by its National President, Adeola Adegoke, the association revealed that the final group of victims regained freedom in the early hours of Saturday after their families met the kidnappers’ demands at an undisclosed location in Ogun State.
The development followed the earlier release of two victims, William Solomon and Rufus Megbowon, who were freed on health grounds in what CFAN described as a divine arrangement.
According to the association, the release process took a dramatic turn when a sudden gunshot disrupted the movement of the victims shortly after they were freed. The incident reportedly occurred in Ibadan, where the captives were being moved by their abductors, causing confusion and temporary disorientation.
Despite the chaos, two victims, Ayebusiwa Toyin and Ayebusiwa Tayo, were assisted to safety by operatives of the Amotekun Corps stationed near a quarry site. Another victim, Omosoluyi Omoseyimi, later contacted the association to confirm her safety.
CFAN expressed relief that all victims have now been safely released as of March 21, 2026, and thanked security agencies, local authorities, and members of the public for their support during the ordeal. The association specifically acknowledged the role of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services in responding to the incident.
The farmers were abducted last week while on a visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Ibadan. CFAN has since called on the government and relevant institutions to strengthen security measures around agricultural and research facilities to prevent future occurrences.
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