ODSG resolves farmers-herders crisis over Owena dam farmland destruction

By Tola Gbadamosi
Efforts to ease rising tensions between farmers and herders in Igbara-Oke, Ondo State, have culminated in a high-level meeting at the headquarters of the State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps.
The meeting aimed to address the destruction of farmland belonging to the Owena Dam Farmers Association, valued at approximately ₦265 million.
The crisis began when herders allegedly allowed their cattle to graze indiscriminately, damaging 25% of the farmland and igniting frustration among the farmers.
Reports indicate failed attempts by farmers to negotiate with herders before turning to Amotekun for intervention.
Speaking at the meeting, Amotekun Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and adherence to the state’s anti-open grazing law.
“No individual is above the law,” Adeleye said. “Our agency ensures compliance with government policies, particularly on open grazing.”
He addressed accusations of bias against herders, explaining that Amotekun’s actions, including the temporary detention of herders and cattle, were legal and aimed at fostering dialogue.
“We’ve secured court orders to detain herders and cattle temporarily while discussions are ongoing. Our priority is to restore normalcy. Both farmers and herders must avoid taking the law into their hands,” Adeleye added.
Also speaking, Alhaji Gonia Garuba, Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Hausa Matters, urged both parties to maintain peace and proposed establishing designated ranches.
“We’ve suggested providing land for ranches far from farms to prevent future conflicts. Peaceful coexistence is possible, and we are working toward that,” Garuba said.
Dr. Daudu Igbekele, Vice Chairman of the Owena Dam Farmers Association, lamented the massive destruction of crops such as cassava, maize, and vegetables.
He also highlighted violent confrontations that left three farmers hospitalized after attempting to protect their farms.
Farmer Adebayo Adewunmi shared his ordeal, stating: “I was chased off my farm by herders and their cattle. The damage to my produce is valued at over ₦15 million.”
Representatives of Miyetti Allah, the herders’ association, denied allegations of deliberate crop destruction, asserting that incidents were accidental. They accused farmers of exaggerating claims to justify punitive actions by Amotekun.
Community leaders, including High Chiefs from Igbara-Oke and neighboring towns, called for dialogue and non-violence. They urged the state government to prioritize ranch development to prevent cattle from straying onto farmlands.
The meeting concluded with agreements to limit cattle movements and avoid confrontations. Both farmers and herders pledged to work with Amotekun to establish monitoring systems to prevent future disputes.
Farmers also appealed to the government for compensation and support in safeguarding their farms.
“The government must prioritize agriculture and protect our livelihoods,” said Mr. Adigun Benjamin, Chairman of the Owena River Basin Farmers Association.
The Ondo State government assured all parties of its commitment to monitoring the situation and facilitating further discussions to ensure lasting peace in the region.