Ogun: AFAN commends govt, security agencies over release of abducted farmer

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, has expressed gratitude to the state government and security agencies for their prompt response in the release of one of their members, Mr. Oreoluwa Osonuga. The 33-year-old poultry farmer was abducted on August 9, 2026, while transporting his vehicle away from his farm settlement in Ikenne.

The armed intruders intercepted Osonuga's vehicle, opened fire upon it, and forcefully dragged him into the nearby bushes. This incident has raised concerns among farmers in the area, especially after the abductors contacted Osonuga's family and demanded a hefty ransom of N500 million for his release.

Security personnel, comprising the police anti-kidnapping unit and military forces, launched a search operation in the nearby forest and successfully rescued Osonuga. The All Farmers Association of Nigeria, in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Sogunle Rotimi, on Friday, expressed "profound appreciation" for the security forces' intervention.

The successful rescue underscores the significance of robust security in safeguarding farmers and maintaining agricultural productivity, particularly in rural and farm-settlement regions.

AFAN highlighted the recurring security issues that have plagued farmers in the Ikenne area of the state. A farmer from the settlement was abducted on April 1, 2026, and remained in captivity for several days before making a daring escape following the payment of a ransom. Despite the gratitude expressed for the recent rescue, AFAN emphasized that the government and security agencies must maintain their efforts to bolster security around farm settlements.

They argued that farmers could contribute optimally to food production only when they feel assured of their safety and that of their families, workers, and investments.