Joshua Gbadamosi, a teenage farmer, was tragically killed on his farm in Ifira-Akoko, located in the Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State. His body was discovered on the farm, which has sparked significant tension and unrest in the local community. Residents have accused herders of being involved in this violent act, which has raised concerns about safety and security in the area.
The discovery of Gbadamosi’s body comes just days after another farmer was murdered in a similar incident in Uba Oka-Akoko, a neighboring area in Akoko South West Local Government. This previous case involved a farmer who was killed at the Ogudu Farm Settlement by suspected herdsmen. Both incidents have intensified fears among local farmers and residents about their safety and the increasing threat posed by criminal activities in the region.
According to sources, Gbadamosi was brutally attacked with machetes by his assailants, who left his lifeless body behind on the farm. The victim’s family and neighbors became alarmed when he did not return home, leading to the grim discovery of his body. The shocking nature of the killing has fueled anger and fear among the community, who are demanding justice and better protection for farmers.
Following the discovery, the police from Isua Akoko were called to the scene. They conducted an investigation, recovered the body, and transported it to the Ipe-Akoko General Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, the police spokesperson for Ondo State, confirmed that a suspect named Farouk Adamu has been arrested in connection with the murder.
The police are continuing their investigation to determine if there are additional suspects involved in this crime.
The recent violence has prompted strong reactions from local leaders. Oba Victor Olasehinde, the Owa of Ogbagi-Akoko and chairman of the Akoko Divisional Council of Obas has condemned the murders as “callous, wicked, and unacceptable.” He has called for increased security measures and greater efforts to address the rising tensions between farmers and herders in the region.
The community is deeply distressed by these events and is calling for urgent action from both local and state authorities to ensure the safety of residents and to prevent further violence. The repeated incidents of murder and attacks on farmers highlight the growing need for effective conflict resolution strategies and enhanced security to protect rural communities.
As the investigation continues, the local population remains on high alert, hoping for justice and a resolution to the ongoing issues affecting their safety and livelihoods.
