The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has announced that farmer-herder conflicts, which were previously a major security challenge in the state, have been completely resolved.
Adetunji Adeleye, Commander of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, revealed that strategic interventions implemented by the security outfit have successfully curbed the menace that once threatened agricultural productivity and community safety across the state.
Enforcement and Arrests
According to Adeleye, within three years of operations, the corps arrested 170 herders who violated the anti-open grazing law while impounding approximately 10,000 cows. These enforcement actions played a crucial role in restoring order to farming communities.
"The conflicts, which previously centered around farmlands and grazing areas, had resulted in both loss of life and economic setbacks," Adeleye explained. He noted that many farmers had abandoned their lands out of fear of abduction or death before Amotekun's intervention.
Strategic Approach to Conflict Resolution
The commander highlighted that a multi-faceted approach was employed to address the crisis. "We started with mass education for both herders and farmers, explaining the limitations of each group. The government wanted people to go back to farm. We were able to restore normalcy within a year, though it was very difficult," he stated.
Public sensitization efforts, coupled with strict enforcement of the anti-open grazing law, contributed significantly to the cessation of clashes. This has helped reduce food insecurity in the state as farmers have returned to their lands with renewed confidence.
The success in tackling farmer-herder conflicts represents a significant achievement for the Amotekun Corps, which has faced various security challenges since its establishment in Ondo State.
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