Rep Member Raises Alarm Over Invasion of Oyo Constituency by Armed Herders
Mrs. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, a member of the House of Representatives representing Oluyole Federal Constituency, has raised an alarm over the invasion of her constituency by armed herdsmen. In a statement issued on Saturday by her Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Olamilekan Olusada, Akande-Sadipe revealed that armed herdsmen have attacked Ogunmakin, Gambari Reserve, and surrounding communities, destroying farmlands and intimidating local farmers.
The lawmaker expressed deep concern over the situation, warning that the actions of the herdsmen are exacerbating economic hardship and food insecurity in the South-West region. She called on the federal government and security agencies to intervene swiftly to prevent further loss of lives and property.
Details of the Invasion
Akande-Sadipe lamented that the armed herdsmen have been using weapons such as guns and cutlasses to instill fear in residents of Ogunmakin and other affected communities. She accused the herdsmen of carrying out a “deliberate agenda to destroy farm produce and intimidate local farmers,” putting the livelihoods of farmers at risk.
“The herdsmen use weapons such as guns and cutlasses to instill fear in residents of Ogunmakin,” she said. “The situation has put in jeopardy the means of livelihood of farmers, thereby exacerbating economic crisis and food insecurity in the South-West region.”
Calls for Immediate Action
The lawmaker emphasized the urgent need for decisive action to avert a humanitarian and food security crisis. She criticized the lack of response from law enforcement agencies despite multiple reports of the attacks, stating that the failure to act has emboldened the perpetrators.
“The failure to act swiftly has emboldened the perpetrators, leading to increased attacks, destruction of crops, and threats to lives and property, with the risk of further escalation if immediate action is not taken,” Akande-Sadipe said.
She pointed to the resolution of the Igangan crisis, where decisive steps were taken to address similar issues, including the enforcement of anti-open grazing laws, as a model for restoring peace and protecting farmers.
Recommendations and Requests
Akande-Sadipe called for an immediate investigation into the reported cases of intimidation, destruction of farmlands, and the use of weapons by herdsmen in the area. She urged the House of Representatives to mandate the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide immediate relief materials to affected farmers and communities.
“We must engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Oyo State Government, security agencies, and community leaders, to develop a sustainable solution to the crisis,” she said.
The lawmaker also requested an on-the-spot assessment of the situation in Ogunmakin, Gambari Reserve, and their environs to better understand the extent of the damage and the needs of the affected communities.
Broader Implications
The invasion of Ogunmakin and surrounding communities highlights the ongoing challenges of farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria, which have led to widespread destruction of farmland, displacement of communities, and loss of lives. The situation also underscores the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms and the enforcement of laws to protect farmers and ensure food security.
Akande-Sadipe’s call for action reflects the growing concern over the impact of these conflicts on local economies and the livelihoods of farmers. The destruction of crops and farmlands not only affects the immediate communities but also contributes to rising food prices and food insecurity across the region.
Looking Ahead
As the federal government and security agencies consider Akande-Sadipe’s requests, stakeholders are calling for a coordinated response to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent further escalation. The involvement of state governments, community leaders, and security agencies will be critical in developing sustainable solutions that protect farmers and promote peaceful coexistence.
For now, the people of Ogunmakin and surrounding communities remain vulnerable, with their livelihoods and safety at risk. The swift intervention of relevant authorities is essential to restore peace and ensure the well-being of affected residents.
