Three abducted Cocoa Research Institute staff regain freedom after payment of N50m ransom

Three staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), in Ibadan, Oyo State, who were abducted by armed men have regained freedom after the payment of N50 million as ransom.

The victims were abducted while inspecting crops on a farm within the institute’s premises on October 9, 2026. 

The abducted staff were identified as Mrs Eunice Babalola, Mr Kehinde Gbalajobi and Mr Nelson.

After the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly demanded N40 million from each of the victims as ransom.

However, the ransom was eventually negotiated to N50 million for the three victims.

A source told Nigerian Tribune that they were rescued from the bush by security forces around Globus Farm, popularly known as Triton, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

The spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the rescue of the victims but said he was not aware of any ransom paid.

The PPRO added that efforts are still ongoing to apprehend the suspects.