The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has confirmed the release of three of its members who were abducted in Ogun and Oyo States, following the payment of ransom by their families.

In a statement issued by its National President, Adeola Adegoke, the association said the final set of victims regained freedom in the early hours of Saturday after negotiations with their abductors were concluded.

The incident involved five farmers who were kidnapped during a visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria. Two of the victims, identified as William Solomon and Rufus Megbowon, had earlier been released on health grounds.

CFAN stated that the remaining three victims were freed between midnight and 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location in Ogun State after ransom payments were made by their relatives.

The association reported that shortly after their release, the victims experienced a disruption when a gunshot was heard at another location in Ibadan, causing confusion during their movement.

Despite the incident, two of the freed individuals, Ayebusia Toyin and Ayebusiwa Tayo, were assisted by operatives of the Amotekun Corps near a quarry site, while the third victim, Omosoluyi Omoseyimi, later contacted the association to confirm safety.

CFAN said all three individuals have now been safely reunited with the association as of Saturday.

The group expressed appreciation to security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, as well as local security groups and community stakeholders for their support during the incident.

The association also called on authorities to strengthen security around agricultural and research areas, noting the need to prevent similar abductions and ensure the safety of farmers across the country.