Suspected herdsmen have killed an 18-year-old farmer, Joshua Gbolahan, in Ifira Akoko, Akoko South-East local government area of Ondo State.
The incident occurred just a week after a similar attack claimed the life of 36-year-old Sunday Ayeni on his farm in Uba Oka, Akoko South-West local government area of the state.
The latest tragedy unfolded on Tuesday, with Gbolahan’s body discovered after he was allegedly macheted to death by unknown assailants believed to be herdsmen.
Eyewitnesses reported that Gbolahan’s body was later recovered by the police at Isua Akoko and transferred to the morgue at Ipe Akoko General Hospital.
The state police public relations officer, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, confirmed the incident and stated that law enforcement swiftly deployed personnel to the area, saying that a suspect had been apprehended in connection with the murder.
Odunlami-Omisanya assured that the police, led by CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter, will persistently work to prevent Ondo state from becoming a refuge for criminals.
Reacting to the previous incident, Odunlami-Omisanya said that CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter visited the Uba community to offer condolences and assure them of justice for their loss.
The CP also met with the Fulani community in Aduloju camp, warning that those responsible for the violence would face consequences.
She said: "CP Abayomi appealed to the two parties to maintain peace while the command is carrying out a detailed investigation and directed the Criminal Investigation Department to take over the case. He also promised to meet with the Governor and relate all discussed in the meeting.
"The Command is using this medium to encourage the people of the state to always report crime to the nearest Police station and other security agencies within reach."
The community is in turmoil, with farmers living in fear due to the ongoing threat of herdsmen attacks.
In response to the escalating violence, traditional rulers and community leaders have called emergency meetings to address the crisis.
The Owa of Ogbagi Akoko, Oba Victor Adetona Olasehinde, who also chairs the Akoko Divisional Council of Obas, has condemned the killings, calling them “callous, wicked, and unacceptable.”
He expressed concern that the unchecked activities of the herdsmen are driving farmers away from their fields, threatening the region's role as a vital food source for the state.
Oba Adetona also urged the government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to restore peace and security in Akoko, cautioning that continued neglect could have severe repercussions for the community and beyond.
