Ondo govt condemns destruction of farmlands in Ifedore, vows actions

Ondo State Government has condemned the recent alleged attack on farmlands and destruction of crops at Ipogun in Ifedore Local Government area of the state.

The government through the Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Olaleye Akinola, who expressed deep concern over the news of the incident allegedly perpetrated by herdsmen, described it as totally unacceptable and vowed that it would not be tolerated in the state.

“Let me first sympathise with all the farmers who have suffered losses due to the destruction of their farms. I understand the impact of such an incident on your livelihoods and on our collective food security efforts in the state.

” I urge you all to remain calm and continue to work towards ensuring food security and economic development in the state, as we are working closely with security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps, to investigate this ugly incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“Our government will not tolerate any form of destruction or harassment of our farmers. I also charge all farmers to be security-conscious around their farms and to report any suspicious movements or activities that could lead to the destruction of their farms to the relevant authorities,” the commissioner said.

Reiterating the commitment of the Aiyedatiwa-led administration to protecting farmlands and farmers, the commissioner stressed that the state government’s agricultural development policy focuses on supporting farmers, protecting farms, and ensuring food security.

According to him, the state government has made agricultural development and food security a priority, and all hands must be on deck to ensure that farmers and their farms are properly safeguarded.

While appealing to all stakeholders to cooperate with the administration of Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in tackling insecurity affecting farmers, he added that the government would continue to provide necessary assistance, including adequate security, to farmers across the state.