Eruwa residents raise alarm over rising attacks on farmers
…seek urgent security intervention Residents of Eruwa in Oyo State have raised concerns over what they described as a surge in violent attacks on farmers and rural settlements, urging government
...seek urgent security intervention
Residents of Eruwa in Oyo State have raised concerns over what they described as a surge in violent attacks on farmers and rural settlements, urging government and security agencies to urgently reinforce security across the agrarian communities.
The outcry follows a series of reported assaults on farmlands and nearby settlements, which locals say have become increasingly frequent and destructive, leaving livelihoods threatened and residents in a state of fear.
At the centre of the concern is the killing of a 70-year-old farmer, Ogunleye Lateef Bukola, who was reportedly attacked on July 19, 2025 while working on his farm. Community sources said he was ambushed and killed by suspected assailants, a development that has thrown neighbouring communities into mourning.
Affected areas include Alape Village, Owode, and Olopoto Village within the Eruwa axis, where residents allege repeated invasions of farmlands, destruction of crops, and vandalisation of property.
Many farmers say they are now hesitant to return to their farms, raising fears over food production and economic stability in the area.
A community leader in Alaye Village, who spoke anonymously, said the situation had deteriorated in recent months. “This is no longer an isolated incident. Our people are being driven away from their farms,” he said.
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Some residents alleged that the attackers were armed herders, though there has been no official confirmation from security agencies as of the time of filing this report.
The development mirrors broader tensions in parts of the country, where clashes between herders and farming communities have been linked to disputes over land use and grazing routes.
Residents have called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify patrols in remote farming areas, while urging the Oyo State Government to take proactive measures to protect rural communities.
They also recommended long-term solutions, including clearer land use policies and structured dialogue among stakeholders to prevent further escalation.
Attempts to obtain an official response from the police were unsuccessful at press time.
As tension persists, residents say they remain on edge, mourning the slain farmer while awaiting urgent intervention to prevent further attacks.
