Herdsmen: Deji condemns attacks on farmers

THE traditional ruler of Akure Kingdom, the Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, on Monday condemned the incessant destruction of farmlands and killing of farmers across the state.

Oba Aladelusi who lamented over the development also frowned over rape of farmers’ wives and their daughters, calling on the state government to address the situation before getting out of hand.

The monarch in a statement issued and signed by his Chief Press Secretary Micheal Adeyeye in Akure, expressed worries over the menace of the herdsmen across the state, saying the impunity of the herdsmen in carrying out their nefarious activities unchecked had reached a dangerous peak.

Oba Aladelusi however called on the “Federal government to pay attention and tackle the issue of Fulani herdsmen which is fast becoming a serious menace and threat to peace in Akure as well as other South west states.

“The incessant attack on farmers and other residents in some parts of Akure is becoming a source of major concern.

“The recent attack on and wanton destruction of the farmland belonging to the former secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae is condemnable and must be nip in the bud once and for all; considering the far-reaching effects of this unprovoked and recurring attack if not quickly checked.

Speaking on restructuring, the Oba said that “we cannot shy away from the need for a meaningful restructuring as a nation.

“The current imbalance in our fiscal federalism which has crippled almost some of the potentially viable states should be addressed as a matter of urgency.

“We cannot pretend to assume that all is well when there are critical issues to be addressed.

“The government must however, be strategic, pro-active and timely in addressing some national issues at stake which could make or mar our continued existence as a strong and united Nigeria.”

Speaking on the state of the nation economy, he called on the federal government to think out of box and look inwardly to find a lasting solution to the myriads of challenges militating against the economy.

He said: “this had affected the payment of salaries and gratuities in almost all the states of the Federation.

He commended the Federal government over the bailout funds and the Paris Club refund to the states, and charged the Federal government to raise an economic team that could help proffer solutions on “challenges that tends to bring our economy on its knee.”

The traditional ruler also enjoined the various State Assemblies to consider the speedy passage of the local government autonomy bill before them at their respective Assemblies.

According to him “This will enable good and participatory governance at the grassroots which is the essence of local government.