We paid ransom to free abducted cocoa farmers— Association

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By Adeola Badru

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Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria ,CFAN, has dismissed claims that its two remaining kidnapped members were rescued, saying an undisclosed amount was paid to secure their release.

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The abductees, who were abducted during a visit to Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan, last Wednesday, were released yesterday.

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In a statement by its National President, Comrade Adeola Adegoke, the body disclosed that the final group of victims regained freedom after their families met the kidnappers’ demands.

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The development followed the earlier release of two victims, Apostle William Solomon and Rufus Megbowon, who were freed on health grounds in what the association described as a “divine arrangement.”

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According to CFAN, the remaining victims were released between midnight and 2:00 a.m. at an undisclosed location in Ogun State after ransom payment by their relatives.

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The statement said: “Sequel to our press release dated March 19, 2026, on the kidnapping incident involving five members of Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, who were on a familiarisation visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, and the subsequent release of the duo, Apostle William Solomon and Rufus Megbowon, on health grounds, considered a divine arrangement, we are pleased to provide an update.”

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In a telephone interview, Chairman of Oluyole Local Government Area, Akeem Olatunji, confirmed that all the abducted farmers have now regained freedom.

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He explained that the successful rescue was the result of coordinated efforts among multiple security agencies, including the Police, Directorate of State Services (DSS), Amotekun, and local vigilante groups in Oluyole.

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Olatunji further stated that the rescue team has since handed the victims over to the police.
He noted that the operation was coordinated by the Security Adviser to Oyo State governor, retired Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni.

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The council chairman expressed appreciation to security operatives and reassured residents of his commitment to continued collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property.

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