In Ondo State, a wave of fear has gripped villagers as they flee their homes in the face of relentless attacks by a combination of herdsmen and bandits. These attacks, characterized by violence, kidnappings, and tragic killings, have not only disrupted daily life but have also raised concerns about food security, displaced numerous residents, and cast a shadow over the safety of lives and property.
Startling statistics reveal that over 4,000 farmers have lost their lives in the South Western part of Nigeria from 2015 to the present. The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data reports that Nigeria has witnessed the loss of at least 8,343 lives due to the farmers-herders conflict since 2005.
To counter this rising threat, the governors of the six South-West states, along with prominent traditional leaders, established the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed ‘Amotekun,’ on January 9, 2020. Despite the backing from state governments, Amotekun has struggled to effectively combat and deter the persistent attacks launched by herders in the Southwest region.
Concerns have been raised about Amotekun’s ability to regain control in areas heavily dominated by herders. Investigations by The PUNCH reveal that certain regions, such as Ifon, have become particularly dangerous, with residents expressing anxiety about traveling through these areas.
Residents share their experiences, with one person stating that Amotekun seems overpowered in certain places, making the journey through these areas a frightening prospect. Some monarchs have resorted to enlisting additional local security to support Amotekun, highlighting the challenges faced by the regional security outfit.
While Amotekun personnel remain tight-lipped about their struggles, residents voice their concerns, emphasizing the security crisis in specific parts of the state. Travellers face attacks, and farmers bear the brunt of the precarious security situation, with tales of assaults on farms, destruction of crops, and threats to livelihoods.
Farmers like Femi Adeyele, still nursing injuries from a herdsmen attack, recount harrowing experiences of confronting herders on their farmlands. Yele Adaranijo describes herders laying ambushes for farmers and the constant threats faced in their pursuit of a livelihood.
As herders’ attacks persist, the safety and security of residents in Ondo State remain a pressing concern, urging authorities to take effective measures to protect lives and property.