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

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria, AFAN, Ogun State Chapter, has commended the state government and security agencies for the swift intervention that led to the release of their colleague, Mr Oreoluwa Osonuga.

DAILY POST learnt that Osonuga, 33, a poultry farmer, was abducted on August 9, 2026, while driving out of the farm settlement in Ikenne.

The gunmen were said to have intercepted his vehicle, shot at it and forcibly dragged him into a nearby bush.

The development heightened concerns among farmers in the settlement, particularly after the abductors reportedly established contact with the victim’s family and demanded N500 million for his release.

Security operatives, including the police anti-kidnapping unit and military personnel, subsequently commenced a search operation in the surrounding forest, leading to the farmer’s release.

AFAN, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Sogunle Rotimi, on Friday, expressed “profound appreciation” for the deployment of security apparatus to secure the farmer’s release.

The association noted that the successful intervention had demonstrated the importance of effective security in protecting farmers and sustaining agricultural activities, particularly in rural and farm-settlement communities.

The farmers also recalled the security challenges confronting farmers in the Ikenne axis of the state, noting that another farmer in the settlement was abducted on April 1, 2026, spending several days in captivity before regaining his freedom after ransom payment.

While expressing gratitude for the latest development, AFAN said it would remain grateful for efforts aimed at ensuring peaceful coexistence and creating a conducive environment for farmers and other businesses to thrive.

The association urged the government and security agencies to sustain the momentum by strengthening security around farm settlements, saying farmers could only contribute effectively to food production when they were assured of the safety of their lives, workers and investments.