By Oluseye Ojo
Ten persons were killed and three others were injured in the clash that occured between some farmers and herdsmen in Oke-Ogun zone of Oyo State in August this year.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) told journalists following an on-the-spot assessment of the affected community – Gbenpakan, in Saki West Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday, this week.
The South West Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Mr. Kadiri Olanrewaju, said: “The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), South West Zonal Office, Ibadan, in collaboration with the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA), conducted an on-the-spot assessment on 10th September 2024, on the impact of the farmers/herders clash in Gbenpakan community, Saki West Local Government Area of Oyo State.
“Upon arrival, the assessment team, led by the Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Kadiri Olanrewaju, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Saki West LGA, Hon. Gbenga Akinola. The Chairman welcomed the team and provided a brief overview of the cause of the conflict.
“It was reported that the conflict stemmed from tensions regarding the use of agricultural land, with farmers accusing herders of encroaching on their farmland for grazing purposes.
“The clash resulted in the tragic loss of 10 lives, while three individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.”
Olanrewaju who sympathised with the affected community, appeale to both farmers and herders to live peacefully. He also advised both parties to refrain from further attacks.
