Farmers and residents from five communities in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area, Ogun State, have raised an urgent concern with Governor Dapo Abiodun over the growing problem of land encroachment and attacks by armed groups.
The affected communities: Iweke, Idode, Koto-Obo, Ilobi-Omuwa, and Ileba, have expressed deep worry about the increasing disruption to their farming activities. They warned that if these illegal acts continue, it could lead to a serious food security crisis and threaten the livelihoods of many families.
In their petition, signed by Pastor Oyero Olurin, their spokesperson, the farmers revealed that criminal gangs have been encroaching on their farmlands despite the state’s Anti-Land Grabbing Law.
These groups have reportedly assaulted farmers, destroyed valuable crops like cocoa and citrus, stolen livestock, and instilled fear in the local population. Many of these families, who have been farming the land for over 150 years, are now facing displacement as a result of these attacks.
According to the petition, the violence has left residents too frightened to work on their farms, especially during critical planting and harvest seasons. The farmers warned that if the situation is not addressed quickly, it could lead to a breakdown in local food production and cause long-term economic difficulties for the region.
The petition also highlighted concerns about the involvement of some law enforcement officers, who are said to be improperly intervening in land disputes.
These officers are accused of aiding land speculators and corrupt legal practitioners, who have been using police protection to sell land without proper documentation. The farmers questioned the legitimacy of these claims, pointing out that their families have held the land for generations without dispute.
In light of these ongoing issues, the petitioners are calling on Governor Abiodun to direct security agencies to disarm and expel the invading groups, enforce the Anti-Land Grabbing Law more effectively, and hold those responsible accountable.
Additionally, they are requesting assistance for displaced families and the creation of a dedicated task force to protect vulnerable communities from further attacks.
