Ondo resolves farmers-herders crisis over Owena Dam farmlands
By Tola Gbadamosi
Efforts to defuse tension between farmers and herders in Igbara-Oke, Ondo State, have yielded tentative resolutions following a high-stake meeting at the headquarters of the State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps.
The conflict, which arose from the destruction of crops valued at N265 million on farmland managed by the Owena Dam Farmers Association, prompted the intervention. Allegations had surfaced that herders allowed their cattle to graze freely on the farmland, resulting in extensive damage.
Farmers reported that 25% of the farmland was destroyed, sparking anger and frustration within the agricultural community. They noted that previous attempts to negotiate with the herders had failed, leaving them no option but to seek Amotekun’s assistance.
Speaking at the meeting, the State Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, underscored the importance of peaceful coexistence.
“No individual is above the law. Our agency is tasked with ensuring compliance with government policies, particularly concerning open grazing,” Adeleye said.
He dismissed claims that Amotekun had unfairly targeted herders, stating, “We operate within the law and do not tolerate false narratives aimed at inciting conflict.” He explained that the detention of herders and their cattle was lawful and aimed at fostering dialogue between the parties.
“We’ve sought court orders to detain herders and cattle temporarily while discussions are ongoing. Our priority is to restore normalcy. I want us to get back to that situation,” he said, adding that both farmers and herders had been cautioned to avoid violence.
The Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Hausa Matters, Alhaji Gonia Garuba, also emphasised the need for peace.
“I’ve been talking to the farmers and appealing to them that peace should reign. Far beyond compensation, we’ve had harmonious relations before now, with farmers farming and herders rearing cattle without issues,” he said.
Garuba revealed ongoing discussions about allocating land for ranching to prevent cattle from straying onto farmlands.