Suspected herdsmen have once again brutally killed a farmer, Joshua Gbadamosi, in Ifira Akoko, Akoko South-East Council area of Ondo State, escalating tensions in the northern senatorial district’s four council areas.
This incident follows the recent murder of another farmer, Sunday Ayeni, by suspected herdsmen. Ayeni had previously received compensation from some herdsmen after their cattle destroyed his farm.
The community is now in distress, with farmers abandoning their land and many residents fleeing the area due to fears of further violence. On Tuesday, women from the community protested half-naked at the palace of the Olubaka of Oka, Oba Adebori Adeleye, demanding justice for Gbadamosi and an end to the attacks by herdsmen.
Oba Adeleye assured the protesters that security agencies are handling the situation. The latest victim, a 15-year-old from Odoro Quarters, Ifira, was found dead on his farm in Odudu farm settlement, allegedly hacked to death by the herdsmen. His body was recovered at Isua Akoko and taken to Ipe Akoko General Hospital.
In response, traditional rulers and community leaders have held an emergency meeting to address the recent surge in kidnapping, killings, and other crimes in the district. The Owa of Ogbagi Akoko, Oba Victor Adetona Olasehinde, condemned the killings as “callous, wicked, and unacceptable.” He expressed concern that the herdsmen’s unchecked actions are driving farmers away and threatening the region’s role as a crucial food supplier.
The monarchs have called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and security in the Akoko communities, warning that continued neglect could have severe consequences.
