Three farmers killed as bandits attack Ondo community

Akin Olotu, senior special assistant on agriculture to Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, says three farmers have been killed following an attack on a community in the state.

Olotu told TheCable that the incident occurred at Ijugbere axis of Owo local government area (LGA) of Ondo on Saturday night.

While condemning the incident, he said those criticising the governor for issuing a seven-day ultimatum to herders should be charged as accomplices in the attack.

“Three farmers were killed on Saturday night here at Ijugbere. The place is gradually becoming like Zamfara,” he said.

“Those accusing the governor of ordering illegal occupants of the forest to vacate the place should be charged as accomplices. They should bury their heads in shame.”

The development comes a few days after two people lost their lives when bandits attacked operatives of the Ondo state security network agency, also known as Amotekun, in the same local government area.

In January, Akeredolu had issued a seven-day quit notice to herdsmen operating illegally in the state’s forest reserves.

Apart from ejecting the herdsmen, the governor also banned underage grazing, night grazing, and movement of cattle within the cities and on highways.

The eviction notice generated varied reactions, and after a meeting with different stakeholders, Akeredolu asked herdsmen to register with the government for proper identification.