The family of 78-year-old farmer, Joel Adeyemo, has revealed that his abductors are demanding ₦60 million for his release after he was kidnapped on his farm in Ofosu, Ondo State.
According to his son, Taiwo Adeyemo, the incident happened last Monday when the elderly farmer went to his farm as usual but failed to return home. Concerned family members reported his disappearance to the police the same day.
He explained that the kidnappers got in touch two days later, demanding ₦60 million before releasing their father. Despite appeals from the family for a reduction, the abductors have remained firm on the amount.
Taiwo said the situation has left the family deeply distressed, especially given the victim’s age and uncertainty about his condition. He added that they have tried to raise funds by putting up some of the man’s properties, including his farm, for sale, but have not found any buyers.
He also expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of visible progress by security agencies, despite reaching out to relevant units both within the state and in Abuja. He appealed to the police, military, and local security outfits to intensify efforts to secure his father’s release.
Reacting to the development, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, condemned the abduction and assured that coordinated operations were underway. He said additional personnel and resources had been deployed to ensure the victim is rescued safely and those responsible are brought to justice.
Kidnapping continues to pose a major security challenge across Nigeria, with many victims only regaining freedom after large ransom payments. The situation has been linked to factors such as economic hardship, unemployment, and the spread of illegal firearms.
