Armed kidnappers held me for three days, demanded N30m – UK-based scholar

A UK-based researcher, Dr Ayodeji Afolami, has recounted how a three-day kidnapping ordeal on his farm in Ogun State in 2021 forced him to abandon his academic pursuit in Nigeria and relocate to the United Kingdom.

Afolami said he was held captive for three days by armed kidnappers who demanded a ransom of N30 million.

Recounting the experience, the researcher said he was physically assaulted and subjected to sustained psychological pressure while in captivity.

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He disclosed that he was taken to an isolated forest location, where he remained at the mercy of his abductors, uncertain whether he would survive the ordeal.

According to him, the experience left him traumatised and shattered his sense of security, making it difficult to continue his academic plans in Nigeria.

Afolami said he eventually relocated to the United Kingdom, where he rebuilt his life and pursued his academic ambitions.

He has since earned a PhD in Sustainable Agriculture and Crop Production.

His account highlights the personal and professional consequences of insecurity, particularly for people whose livelihoods and academic pursuits depend on operating in rural communities.