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Cocoa Farmers Regain Freedom After Ransom Payment, Association Clarifies

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 22nd, 2026.

In Ibadan,The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has confirmed that its remaining abducted members have regained freedom, dismissing reports that they were rescued by security operatives and revealing that ransom was paid to secure their release.

The farmers were kidnapped last week during a visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan, sparking concern within the agricultural community. According to Sunday Punch, their release marks the end of a tense period for their families and colleagues.

In a statement issued by CFAN National President, Comrade Adeola Adegoke, the association explained that the final group of victims was freed after their families complied with the kidnappers’ demands. He noted that the victims were released in the early hours of the day at an undisclosed location in Ogun State.

The development follows the earlier release of two victims, Apostle William Solomon and Rufus Megbowon, who were reportedly freed on health grounds. The association described their release as a fortunate and unexpected development.

“The remaining victims have now been reunited with their families after the necessary steps were taken to secure their freedom,” Adegoke said, adding that the association remains grateful that all those abducted are now safe.

However, local authorities have presented a slightly different account. The Chairman of Oluyole Local Government Area, Akeem Olatunji, stated in a telephone interview that the victims’ release followed coordinated efforts by security agencies. According to The Guardian Nigeria, he credited the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Amotekun corps, and local vigilante groups for their involvement.

Olatunji disclosed that the victims were subsequently handed over to the police, noting that the operation was supervised by the Oyo State Security Adviser, Fatai Owoseni, a retired Commissioner of Police.

While the exact details surrounding the release remain unclear, the incident has once again highlighted concerns over insecurity affecting farmers and rural communities. Daily Times reports that stakeholders are calling for stronger security measures to protect agricultural workers, particularly those traveling for official engagements.

Despite the differing accounts, the safe return of all the abducted farmers has brought relief to their families and the wider farming community.