Tension is brewing in Imeko/Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State as farmers raise alarm over alleged harassment and extortion by permit enforcement officials forcing them to pay N8,000 for motorcycle riders’ permits.
Despite clear directives exempting non-commercial motorcycle users from the levy, farmers claim they are being targeted and threatened by enforcement agents, with many compelled to obtain the permit under duress.
Speaking under the banner of Concerned Farmers, Mr. Adesina Alabi expressed frustration over what he described as a coordinated effort to exploit rural farmers. He accused a permit officer, Mr. Sunday Yedeyede, of spearheading the intimidation.
“There was a time when Yedeyede and his men went from village to village, threatening to seize motorcycles from farmers who refused to pay. Over 60 farmers have been coerced into collecting the permit, which we know is not backed by the state government,” Alabi said.
Another victim, Isaac Durosinmi from Olorunda Village, recounted how he was stopped by permit agents on his way to Obada Market and forced to pay N1,000 before he could proceed.
When contacted, Mr. Yedeyede denied the accusations, stating that farmers obtained the permits willingly. He noted that although the police had clarified that only commercial motorcycle operators should be levied, he and his team were instructed otherwise by those who assigned them.
“The police have scheduled a meeting for Thursday, June 12, where the matter will be further addressed,” he added.
Reacting to the development, the local government chairman, Mr. Theophilus Olorode, said he had summoned Yedeyede and warned him against disturbing farmers. “The issue has been addressed. If there are still complaints, those affected should contact me directly,” he said.
Furthermore, the farmers have urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to step in and end what they describe as unlawful treatment and financial burden imposed on rural communities.
