Hoodlums Set Cocoa Plantations Ablaze in Ondo Forest Reserve, Farmers Accuse State Agents
Cocoa plantations inside the Oluwa Forest Reserve in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State have been set on fire by hoodlums, sparking outrage among affected farmers. The farmers have accused agents of the Ondo State government of orchestrating the destruction, alleging that it is part of a plot to forcefully evict them from their farmlands using a “dubiously obtained” court order.
In a petition to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the farmers, through their counsel Tope Temokun, called for urgent intervention to ensure they can access their farms and harvest their crops without victimization, harassment, or intimidation. They also urged the government to allow the High Court to determine the case fairly if an out-of-court resolution is not possible.
Farmers’ Allegations
The farmers alleged that the destruction of their cocoa plantations was carried out by individuals acting on behalf of the Ondo State government. They claimed that the government is using a questionable court order to justify the eviction and destruction of their livelihoods.
In the petition, the farmers stated, “We respectfully urge Your Excellency, in use of your good office, to investigate the role of the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre (OSAEC) under Mr. Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola in this whole sad development. Provide protection for the farmers and ensure that their rights are respected and their interests protected under your government.”
They expressed trust in the governor’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the welfare of the people of Ondo State, urging swift action to address the issue and prevent further suffering among the farmers.
Government’s Response
In response to the allegations, Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola, head of the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre (OSAEC), stated that the court order was duly obtained and that no court had restrained the state government from accessing the Oluwa Forest Reserve.
Akinsola emphasized that the farmers were operating in the forest at the pleasure of the state government and that it was the government’s duty to attract investors and ensure they carry out government plans.
“Farmers were operating in the Forest at the pleasure of the state government. It is the duty of government to attract investors and ensure investors carry out government plans,” Akinsola said.
Broader Implications
The destruction of the cocoa plantations has significant implications for the affected farmers, many of whom rely on the crops for their livelihoods. The incident has also raised concerns about the relationship between the government, investors, and local communities, particularly regarding land use and resource management.
The farmers’ allegations of government complicity in the destruction highlight the need for transparency and accountability in land allocation and agricultural development projects. The situation underscores the importance of balancing economic development with the rights and welfare of local communities.
Calls for Resolution
Stakeholders have called for a thorough investigation into the incident and a fair resolution to the dispute. The farmers have urged the government to prioritize dialogue and ensure that their rights are protected while allowing the court to adjudicate the matter if necessary.
The controversy also highlights the need for clear policies and guidelines on land use and agricultural development to prevent similar conflicts in the future.
Looking Ahead
As the situation unfolds, the Ondo State government faces mounting pressure to address the farmers’ grievances and ensure that justice is served. The outcome of this dispute will likely have far-reaching implications for land use, agricultural development, and community relations in the state.
For now, the affected farmers remain hopeful that their petition will lead to swift action and a resolution that safeguards their livelihoods and rights.
