A group of women from Araromi-Ibese community in Yewa North local government area of Ogun State has appealed to the state government and security agencies in the state to take drastic measures in curtailing the excess of Fulani herders that have invaded their community and destroyed their farmlands.
The protesting women, who made the call at the weekend to protest against the growing insecurity posed by Fulani herdsmen in their area, also called on traditional rulers in the Southwest to come to their aid.
The women expressed their frustration and fear over the constant attacks and harassment they face at the hands of the Fulani.
One of the protesters, who was in a video sighted by Vanguard, narrated how her daughter gave birth in the bush while running for her dear life.
She said, “We no longer feel safe in our community anymore. In the process that my daughter and I were running for our dear life, she fell into labour around 1 am, in the middle of the night, and she gave birth in the bush”.
Another person said, “The Fulani people have destroyed my farmland, taken away all my farm products, and left me with nothing.”
They called on the Ogun State government to intervene and address the security concerns in their community.
They also appealed to the traditional rulers in Yorubaland to come to their aid and help restore peace and security to their area.
Reacting to the development, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency of Ogun State, Gboyega Isiaka, described the invasion of the community by the Fulani herders as a tragic event, particularly highlighting the plight of a heavily pregnant woman forced to flee into the bush for safety.
Isiaka, in a statement issued by his media aide, Femi Peters, lamented the distress caused to women farmers in the community.
According to Isiaka, a woman reportedly delivered her baby in the middle of the night without medical care, returning to the village still gripped by fear.
“Mother and child could have died in the process,” he lamented.
Isiaka commended the proactive measures taken by security agencies and community leaders in responding to the situation.
However, he called for more decisive action to prevent future occurrences and to protect the community.
The statement reads, “My attention has been drawn to the grievances of our women in Araromi Ibese over the destruction of their farmlands by Fulani herdsmen. I am appalled by the unchecked onslaught by these herdsmen who are systematically destroying the lifeline of our communities—our farmlands”.
He pledged to closely monitor the situation and ensure that relief and support are provided to the affected farmers and their families.
“The safety and well-being of our constituents are of the utmost importance. We will not rest until the Araromi-Ibese farming community is safeguarded from further invasion. We will continue to advocate for immediate and effective government intervention to address this situation,” he added.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the livelihoods of his constituents and ensuring their security amidst the recurring threat of herdsmen attacks.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Yewa North local government area of Ogun State, Dr. Olusola Akinbode, has constituted a ‘Conflict Resolution Committee’ with a charge to proffer a lasting solution to the perennial herders and farmers conflict in the council area.
The Council boss further disclosed that, the constitution of the Committee was to ensure wider findings to the immediate and remote causes of the conflict and proffer solutions where necessary.
The Committee was headed by the Secretary to Local Government, Alhaji Lukumon Akinyemi with other stakeholders, comprising a traditional ruler, security agencies, representative of Fulani and farmers as members.
In his submission, the Secretary, Atokun Cattle Market, Pastor Olusola Akindele appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for constituting Conflict Resolution Committee at the state level, as well and other measures being taken to promote peaceful co- existence across the state
In his response, the Seriki Fulani, Ayetoro, Alhaji Usman Ibrahim, appreciated the council for the peace initiative, saying the local government should continue to serve as perfect template for justice and fairness in its resolve towards ending the perennial farmers/herders clashes in the council
Speaking on the invasion of farmlands by the Fulani herders, spokesperson of the State Police command, Omolola Odutola said,
the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo has taken decisive action to prevent any escalation of conflict between the herders and farmers in the State.
She said, “CP Ogunlowo has reassured residents of the State that the police are committed to ensuring peace and adequate safety for all citizens. The Police will continue to engage all parties involved to foster understanding and prevent conflicts.
“The Ogun State Police Command remains vigilant and dedicated to upholding law and order, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts between farmers and herders to maintain peaceful coexistence in the community.”
“Members of the community are urged to report any suspicious activities or conflicts promptly to the police, as collaboration with the police is essential to fostering a secure environment for everyone.”