The people of Idoani, Idogun, Imeri and Afo in Ose local government area of Ondo State have issued a 21-day ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen to vacate their farmlands with effect from July 22, 2019.
In a communiqué jointly signed by Alani of Idoani, Oba Olufemi Olutoye, Onidogun, Oba Moses Bakare, Onimeri, Oba Babatunde Adeniran and Alafo, Oba Adegoke Egunjobi in Idoani on Saturday, July 27, 2019, the royal fathers said their people could no longer tolerate the spate of kidnapping, killing, raping of their wives and daughters by the herders.
The royal fathers further expressed worries over the possibility of violent clashes and reprisals between the farmers and herders following the incessant destruction of cash crops by the Fulani herdsmen adding that,
“The ultimatum remains the last option to avoid breakdown of law and order as the Fulanis have rebuffed all entreaties to conduct themselves within the confines of the law,” the statement read in part.
According to the five paragraph Communiqué, the fear of frequent unprovoked attacks by the Fulanis have forced many farmers to abandon their means of livelihood leading to economic meltdown in the area as the farmers could no longer meet their daily obligations.
While describing as an affront to Yoruba race the disturbing news that Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria had allegedly set up vigilante group in Ondo state, the four royal fathers vowed not to allow any part of the area to be used for RUGA in whatever guise.
They therefore called on the residents of the area to be vigilant and report any suspicious movement to the law enforcement agencies for appropriate action.
