INSECURITY! Residents Run For Safety As Herdsmen Overtake Amotekun And Attack Villagers, See Details
In recent times, several villages in Ondo State have witnessed a mass exodus of residents as they flee from relentless attacks by a combination of herdsmen and bandits. These attacks, marked by incidents of kidnapping and, at times, fatal violence, have not only disrupted daily life but also posed a significant threat to food security and displaced a considerable number of inhabitants.
Disturbingly, research reveals that over 4, 000 farmers have lost their lives in the South Western part of Nigeria since 2015. The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data reports that Nigeria has mourned the loss of at least 8, 343 individuals in the farmers- herders conflict since 2005. In response to the rising invasion of herders in the Southwest region, the governors of the six South- West states initiated the formation of the Western Nigeria Security Network, commonly known as ‘ Amotekun, ‘ on January 9, 2020.
Despite the backing from state governments, Amotekun, the regional security outfit, faces an uphill battle in countering the persistent attacks from herdsmen. Concerns have been raised about the capacity of Amotekun to regain control in areas dominated by these armed groups.
Investigations by The PUNCH reveal the grim reality on the ground. Residents express fear, with one mentioning that a road leading to Ifon has become deserted due to the overpowering presence of herdsmen. Some villagers have reportedly fled their homes, and a monarch, seeking anonymity, disclosed the need for additional local security support to assist Amotekun.
