The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the abduction of seven farmers in the Itaogbolu area of Akure North Local Government Area.
Amotekun Commander, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the incident in a phone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday. He revealed that the kidnapping occurred on Saturday, and operatives have since been deployed to the area, actively searching the surrounding forests for the victims.
“I can confirm the kidnapping. Our personnel have been on ground in the forest and are still there,” Adeleye stated. “I visited the area myself on Sunday, and we remain optimistic about rescuing the victims soon.”
The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, also confirmed the development. He said law enforcement had launched an operation to secure the victims’ release.
“There was indeed a kidnapping case over the weekend in Itaogbolu. The police are on it, and efforts are ongoing to track down those responsible,” Ayanlade said. “I can’t confirm the exact number of abducted persons yet due to the ongoing rescue operation, but we’re doing everything possible to ensure their safe return.”
A local source, speaking anonymously, disclosed that the kidnapped individuals had gone to the farm to harvest palm fruits when they were seized.
According to the source, the kidnappers reached out to one of the victims’ families on Sunday evening and demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for their release.
Negotiations with the abductors are reportedly still ongoing.
