Women in Uba-Oka Akoko, a community in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, have staged a peaceful protest to denounce the ongoing killings attributed to suspected herdsmen and to urge government intervention.
The demonstration was triggered by the recent murder of farmer Sunday Ayeni, whose body was discovered on his farm with severe machete wounds and exposed intestines, suggesting a brutal attack by his assailants.
This incident followed a recent dispute where Ayeni’s farm was damaged by cows allegedly owned by herdsmen.
The situation was partially resolved when security agents and community elders facilitated compensation for Ayeni.
An anonymous resident reported that Ayeni’s farm was previously destroyed by herdsmen, but the issue was addressed through compensation after intervention from local authorities.
During the protest, the women, many of whom were dressed in traditional attire with heads uncovered, marched to the palace of Oba Adebori Adeleye, the traditional ruler of Oka Akoko, singing solidarity songs.
They also accused herdsmen of sexually assaulting women on their farms and destroying crops.
Mrs. Abigail Ojo, who spoke on behalf of the protesters, expressed their fears, stating, “We have practically abandoned our farms due to the constant threat from herdsmen.
We are calling on security agencies to address our plight and find lasting solutions.”
In response, SP ‘Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed that an investigation into the killings has begun and expressed hope that those responsible will be apprehended and brought to justice.
