Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has presented cheques totaling N146 million as compensation to 46 indigenes of Oke Ako Ekiti whose land was acquired for commercial agriculture.
Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the agribusiness project, despite initial delays.
He commended the Oke Ako community for their cooperation and assured that the commercial agriculture initiative would lead to road rehabilitation, improved health facilities, and the establishment of cottage industries to boost the local economy.
The governor stated, “What we are doing here today is another promise fulfilled, ensuring that compensation is paid to citizens whose land was acquired for commercial agricultural purposes.”
He also noted a significant reduction in kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area since the forests that once served as hideouts had been cleared and cultivated under the agribusiness scheme involving local youths.
A total of 4,000 hectares of land has been allocated to young farmers under the “Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture” scheme, a partnership with YSP Farm in Oke Ako.
Oyebanji highlighted Oke Ako’s potential as an economic asset, including the development of hubs for tractor training, assembly, and repairs.