Ondo Farmers Protest Killing Of Five Farmers By Herdsmen
Tension has escalated in Ondo State as farmers in the Akure North Local Government Area staged a protest at the governor’s office following the brutal murder of five farmers by suspected armed herdsmen at Aba Oyinbo. The tragic incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, has further heightened concerns over security in the region.
The protesters, visibly distraught and angered by the recurring attacks, carried the bodies of the victims to the governor’s office in Akure, the state capital, demanding immediate action from the government. The demonstration led to a complete shutdown of activities at the government office for several hours.
This protest marks the second time in recent weeks that residents have stormed the governor’s office to express their grievances over increasing insecurity. The wave of kidnappings and killings in the state has been a source of concern for citizens, especially farmers, who have become the primary targets of these criminal activities.
Just last week, twenty farmers lost their lives when suspected herdsmen invaded and overran four communities in the same Akure North council area. This latest attack has only deepened fears that the perpetrators continue to operate unchecked despite the presence of security forces.
The protesting farmers shut down the governor’s office, expressing frustration over the perceived inability of security agencies to curb the incessant attacks. They lamented that the criminals appear to be carrying out their activities unhindered, leaving rural communities in a state of constant fear.
Beyond the protest at the governor’s office, some aggrieved farmers also barricaded the Akure/Owo highway, disrupting traffic as they called for swift and decisive action against the attackers. The demonstrators emphasised that they could no longer endure the increasing threats to their lives and livelihoods.
See Also: Libya Deports 177 Nigerian Women And Children
The recent surge in violent attacks has prompted calls for the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts in tackling the menace of armed herdsmen. Farmers and residents are demanding improved security measures, including increased surveillance, deployment of more security personnel, and the enforcement of laws to protect communities from further attacks.
As tensions remain high, many await the government’s response to the crisis, hoping for decisive action that will restore peace and security in the affected areas. The continued attacks on farmers not only threaten lives but also pose a severe risk to food security and economic stability in Ondo State.
Content Credit| Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola
Image Credit| https://punchng.com/
Source| www.vanguardngr.com
