By Precious Oluwole
The Ondo State House of Assembly has reiterated its stance against land grabbing, warning residents that the law prohibiting the act remains fully in force.
The House Committee on Commerce and Industry, led by its Chairman, Hon. Afe Felix, issued the warning during an oversight visit to Araromi Ayesan Oil Palm Plc and Rubber Estate Nigeria Limited in Araromi-Obu, Odigbo Local Government Area.
Hon. Felix described land grabbing as a major cause of displacement, conflicts, and insecurity in rural and urban areas, noting that it also discourages investors. He cautioned residents against encroaching on lands that do not belong to them, stressing that offenders will be prosecuted by the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing.
The committee chairman also commended the companies as key players in the agro-allied sector. He highlighted the economic potential of palm fruits, urging government and investors to give more attention to the crop because of its efficiency in oil production.
He further appealed to both state and federal governments to create a more enabling business environment, noting that companies like Araromi Ayesan and Rubber Estate provide vital employment opportunities for youths.
Other committee members encouraged the firms to carry them along in their operations, patronize local investors, and continue to engage and train Ondo youths to boost productivity.
In response, the General Manager of Araromi Ayesan Oil Palm Plc, Mr. Sola Ikumawoyi, thanked the lawmakers for the visit and disclosed that the company has already employed over 800 people, with the potential to generate more revenue and create additional jobs. He, however, appealed for support in addressing challenges such as land encroachment.
Similarly, the Managing Director of Rubber Estate Nigeria Limited, Mr. Charles Turksen, outlined the company’s contributions to its host communities through projects such as an e-library, scholarship awards, school renovations, and road grading, as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The lawmakers were later conducted round the facilities of both companies.
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