A 22-year Ogun State-based farmer, Dumebi Enyi-Okafor, has narrated how he was kidnapped by bandits when his family’s farm was attacked twice.
The victim while speaking with journalists, lamented that he spent eight days in captivity before his ransom money could be raised.
“My name is Dumebi Enyi-Okafor. I was the one managing our family farm in the Owode area of Ogun State while my father’s name is Mr Somto Bethrand Abuadimma Okafor
“On Saturday, March 22, 2025, a large number of fully-armed terrorists invaded our farm around Owode. Two of our workers were killed, while I was kidnapped and taken to an unknown destination.
” I was tortured and dehumanised throughout the period.
“Despite spirited efforts made by those that escaped to solicit help, the terrorists had a field day. The kidnappers threatened that they will kill me instantly if my family should inform the police or any security agents.
“The terrorists demanded a huge amount of money as ransom for my release. It took my parents eight days to raise money to pay the terrorists for my freedom.
“It was a horrible experience. I was tortured and traumatized but to my utmost surprise, another attack was launched early this month. Our farm was devastated, while my daddy narrowly escaped death.
“The south west has been infiltrated by these bandits, chased from the northern part of the country and Kwara state which is under siege in recent times
” So, there is no gainsaying the fact that the Nigerian state is under siege. It is such a precarious situation that no one can vouch for their safety,” he narrated.
“I therefore seek more security consciousness and surveillance to nip the clandestine activities of the kidnappers in the bud,” he begged.
” The menace of kidnapping and violence is becoming alarming on a daily basis in Nigeria, which the government appears to be helpless, but trying, now people live in fear and anguish,” he said.
Answering questions from journalists, the 22-year old, Enyi-Okafor said his parent also incurred additional expenses over the eventual burial of their deceased staff.