ABEOKUTA– The Ajogbo Akia community in the Ado-Odo local government area of Ogun State has called on the state government for intervention following the destruction of its farmlands and agricultural assets by alleged landgrabbers.
Speaking with newsmen in Abeokuta, the traditional ruler of the community, Dr. Oluwasegun Adebiyi described the incident as a devastating blow to the survival and livelihoods of his people.
Represented by the community Secretary, Chief Timothy Olamide, Adebiyi stated that even more crippling to the community’s economic foundation is the felling of economic palm trees and agricultural plantations that have stood for over 50 to 100 years.
“Farmers who were once self-sufficient producers have suddenly been left without any source of income or sustenance.
“The loss of multi-generational palm plantations has stripped families of long-term economic security, creating a humanitarian emergency that local resources cannot solve alone”, he lamented
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command in a statement made available to Blueprint, by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Oluborode Opeyemi, stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of farmland destruction, criminal trespass, and intimidation.
“The command reiterated its zero-tolerance policy regarding land-grabbing and illegal self-help, while commending the community leadership for maintaining peace”, he said
The community however called on relevant agencies, and humanitarian organizations for immediate relief, protection of their lives, livelihoods, and dignity.
