Residents of several communities in Ondo State have raised alarm over escalating threats from Fulani herders who reportedly claim ancestral rights to the land, demanding that indigenous farmers vacate their properties.
In a recent incident, a group of Fulani herders allegedly confronted farmers in the Ala Forest Reserve area, asserting that their great-grandfathers granted ownership of the land to the Fulani people. The herders reportedly warned the farmers to vacate the land or face dire consequences.
One affected farmer, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted the incident:
“They came to our farms, saying the land belongs to them because their ancestors gave it to them. They told us to leave or else they would take action.”
This development has heightened tensions in the region, where farmers have previously reported attacks and intimidation by suspected herders. In April 2023, farmers in the Ala Forest Reserve area reported attacks by individuals suspected to be herders, leading to injuries and the destruction of crops. Residents expressed concerns that the herders were attempting to take over their farmlands by force .
The Ondo State Government has yet to issue a formal response to these latest claims. However, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges of land ownership and security in the region.
Local leaders are urging the state and federal governments to intervene promptly to address the issue and prevent further escalation.
This incident adds to a growing list of similar reports across Nigeria, where disputes over land ownership between indigenous communities and Fulani herders have led to conflicts and displacement.
The need for comprehensive land reform and effective security measures has never been more urgent to ensure peace and stability in affected regions.
