I abandoned my PhD in Nigeria after three days in kidnappers’ den — UK-based researcher

Dr Ayodeji Afolami, an agricultural researcher based in the UK, recounts his harrowing kidnapping experience on his farm in Ogun State, Nigeria. The incident occurred in August 2021, when five armed men seized him from his farm, forcing him into the forest and holding him captive for three days. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N30 million, but Dr Afolami's family and friends worked tirelessly to secure his release.

The kidnapper's ordeal left Dr Afolami traumatized, forcing him to abandon his PhD in Crop Production at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. He relocated to the UK and earned a new PhD in Sustainable Agriculture and Crop Production from the Royal Agricultural University, focusing on soybean production under northern temperate conditions.

In captivity, Dr Afolami endured physical assaults and psychological pressure, threatened with potential death. The uncertainty of his fate left him feeling helpless and fearing for his life. Upon his release, he sustained injuries and sought medical attention. Reuniting with his family was a mix of relief and emotional turmoil as he grappled with the aftermath of the kidnapping.

Dr Afolami's experience deeply affected his mental and emotional well-being, causing him to become fearful and struggle with everyday activities. He sought therapy to process the trauma and regain confidence, acknowledging that the kidnapping's impact extended beyond physical survival to his overall sense of security and ability to lead a normal life in Nigeria.