A desperate attempt to secure the release of a kidnapped farmer ended in tragedy after suspected kidnappers allegedly beheaded his elder brother, who had volunteered to deliver the ransom in Oyo State.
The victim, identified as Robert Olorode, was reportedly killed on Saturday, October 24, 2026, after travelling to the kidnappers’ hideout to deliver the ransom demanded for the release of his younger brother, Elijah Okeleye.
Elijah, a resident of Afija’s Compound in Ilaji-Oke, Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State, was reportedly abducted on Wednesday, October 21, while returning from his farm in Saaji-daada, also in Kajola LGA.
According to sources, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦15 million, two days after abducting the farmer. The demand was later reduced to ₦500,000.
In an effort to secure his brother’s freedom, Robert reportedly volunteered to take the ransom to the kidnappers on October 24. However, he was allegedly beheaded by the abductors upon arriving at their hideout.
The incident has raised concerns over the growing security challenges facing residents of rural communities, particularly farmers who risk abduction while travelling to and from their farmlands.
When contacted, the Bajigan of Ilaji-Oke, Oba Jeremiah Oyeboade Oladosu, confirmed that Olorode was a member of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun.
However, it was clarified that Olorode had undertaken the ransom delivery in his personal capacity as a family member seeking his brother’s release, rather than in his official capacity as an Amotekun operative.