Oyo community decries rising attacks
Residents of Eruwa in Oyo State have raised the alarm over what they described as a surge in violent attacks on farmers and rural communities, calling on government and security
Residents of Eruwa in Oyo State have raised the alarm over what they described as a surge in violent attacks on farmers and rural communities, calling on government and security agencies to urgently strengthen security across the agrarian area.
The concerns follow a series of incidents reportedly targeting farmlands and settlements, with locals lamenting that the attacks have become frequent and devastating, threatening livelihoods and heightening fear among residents.
At the centre of the outcry is the killing of a 70-year-old farmer, Ogunleye Lateef Bukola, who was reportedly attacked on July 19, last year.
According to sources, the deceased was working on his farm when he was ambushed and killed by assailants.
His death has since sent shockwaves across neighbouring communities.
Affected areas include Alape Village, Owode and Olopoto Village within the Eruwa axis, where residents said farmlands have been repeatedly invaded, crops destroyed and property vandalised.
Many farmers, they added, were reluctant to return to their fields, raising concerns about food security and economic survival.
A community leader in Alaye Village, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation had worsened in recent months.
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“This is no longer an isolated incident. Our people are being driven away from their farms,” he said.
Some residents alleged that the attackers were armed herders, although there has been no official confirmation from security agencies at the time of filing this report.
The development reflects a broader pattern of clashes between herders and farming communities reported in parts of the country, often linked to disputes over land use and grazing routes.
Residents urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify patrols, particularly in remote farming areas, and called on the state government to take proactive steps to safeguard rural communities.
They also advocated long-term solutions to the recurring conflicts, including clearer land use policies and structured dialogue among stakeholders.
Efforts to reach the police for comments were unsuccessful.
