Organise vigilantes to protect farms, Akeredolu tells Ondo residents

Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo state, has urged residents to be actively involved in securing their farmlands and communities.

Akeredolu, who was represented by Akin Olotu, senior special assistant to the governor on agriculture and agro-allied industries, stated this on Thursday at the launch of the “Cassava Revolution” initiative in Akure, the Ondo capital.

Olotu quoted the governor as saying there is a need for concerted efforts to protect farmers to ensure food security.

“I want to advise that our people should come together and organise vigilantes in their respective localities to protect their farms and businesses,” he said.

“And if there is any issue, they should not hesitate to inform the Amotekun corps, the police and other security agents.’’

He said the state government is ready to create more jobs for youths through agriculture.

According to him, more farmers will be engaged as the cassava revolution kicks off, just as the ethanol factory in the state will be able to produce at higher capacity with the availability of more cassava tubers.

Speaking on the initiative, Sunday Olatigbe, who spoke on behalf of the private firm behind the project, said more than 7,000 farmers will benefit from the programme.

He added that the company will also provide insurance cover for farms, while there will be collaboration with security agencies to provide protection for farming communities.