Tension has escalated in Ondo State following the latest herdsmen attacks in Akure North Local Government Area, where four farmers were reportedly killed on Tuesday. The tragic incident triggered a massive protest by enraged youths and farmers, who transported the bodies of the victims to the state capital, Akure, in a desperate bid to draw government attention to the recurring killings.
The gruesome killings, which occurred in the 13/13 farm settlement in the Ajagbusi area of Ala Elefosan, have once again cast a spotlight on the growing insecurity and unchecked violence associated with herdsmen attacks in Ondo State.
Protesters Demand Government Action Over Herdsmen Attacks
In a dramatic move that shocked many, protesters—comprising youths, farmers, and residents—barricaded the main entrance of the Ondo State Secretariat in Alagbaka, Akure, placing the lifeless bodies of the slain farmers at the gate. The protest caused a major traffic snarl, leaving commuters and motorists stranded for several hours at the roundabout leading to the Governor’s Office and the Federal Secretariat.
The demonstrators chanted solidarity songs and carried placards demanding justice for the slain farmers. Their message was clear: the era of silence in the face of repeated herdsmen attacks in Ondo State must end.
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Police Confirm Killings, Vow to Restore Peace
Speaking on the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, SP Alayande Olayinka, confirmed the killings and the ongoing protest. He revealed that tactical police units had been deployed to the affected community to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“Our operatives are already on ground in the community to maintain peace. We assure the public that the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” Olayinka stated.
Despite police assurances, the state government has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, a silence that many protesters interpret as indifference or negligence.
Traditional Ruler Laments Insecurity, Calls for Community Self-Defense
During a press briefing with journalists, the traditional ruler of Adeshina Community, Chief Taiwo Samuel, condemned the attack and accused the government of failing to protect farmers from the escalating violence.
“Three farmers were killed this morning in the Ajagbusi area. Another was killed two days ago. We brought their bodies to Alagbaka so the world can see our pain and to prevent any form of denial, which we’ve experienced in the past,” he said.
Chief Samuel noted that herdsmen attacks in Ondo State have become a regular occurrence, with little or no response from the authorities. According to him, over 20 farmers have been killed in just the past month across communities in Akure North LGA alone.
Communities Threaten Self-Defense Amid Growing Insecurity
In a passionate appeal to the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Chief Samuel called for urgent intervention and support for communities to defend themselves against persistent attacks.
“The killings have become unbearable. During the late Governor Akeredolu’s administration, these kinds of incidents were not as rampant. Now, everything seems to be spiraling out of control,” he lamented.
He warned that if the government continues to turn a blind eye to the plight of the people, communities may be forced to resort to self-help, even if it means taking up arms in self-defense.
“We cannot keep dying silently. If the government cannot protect us, we will have no choice but to protect ourselves, even if it means facing prosecution. Enough is enough,” he added.
Recurring Killings Raise Alarms Over Farmer-Herder Clashes
The latest attack follows a similar pattern witnessed just weeks ago, when five farmers were reportedly killed in the ‘Aba Oyinbo’ area, also located within Akure North. Observers note that despite public outcry and repeated reports, there has been little government response or action to stem the tide of herdsmen attacks in Ondo State.
As security concerns mount, pressure is building on the Ondo State Government to take a firm stand against violent herders and provide lasting security solutions for farming communities.
Conclusion: Time for Action on Herdsmen Attacks in Ondo State
The repeated herdsmen attacks in Ondo State are not only endangering lives but also threatening food security, as many farmers now avoid their lands for fear of being attacked. The Tuesday protest was a stark reminder of the brewing anger and frustration within rural communities.
Without urgent and decisive action, the state risks plunging into deeper security crises, as aggrieved communities may no longer wait for justice from authorities perceived as indifferent.
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