Unknown Gunmen Kill 5 Farmers In Ondo

Ondo State has been thrown into mourning after unknown gunmen killed at least five farmers in the Ajegunle-powerline community, Akure North Local Government Area (LGA) of the state. The tragic incident, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, has left the community in shock and fear, with residents urgently calling for government and security intervention to address the escalating violence.

What Happened?

According to eyewitness accounts, the attack took place around 3 pm on Tuesday, January 30, 2025. Akin Olowolafe, a member of the community, revealed that suspected herders stormed a farm in the area armed with guns. The victims, identified as farm laborers hired from Plateau and Kaduna states, were shot dead during the attack. 

“They shot sporadically, killing five of our workers. This is how they usually come to disturb and destroy our crops,” Olowolafe said. He added that the community has repeatedly reported such incidents to the state government and security agencies, but no concrete action has been taken to address the issue.

Community In Despair

The Ajegunle-powerline community has been grappling with incessant attacks, making life unbearable for residents. Many farmers have abandoned their farms out of fear for their lives, further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the community. 

“On several occasions, we’ve reported them to the state government and even to security agencies, but no positive actions were taken to curb their illegality,” Olowolafe lamented.

Police Confirm Attack, Launch Investigation

Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the incident but could not provide specific details about the number of casualties. “There was an attack on the community, and the police are still investigating. But I cannot confirm the number of people that were killed,” she said.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the victims have been deposited at the morgue of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMETH) in Akure by members of the hunters and vigilantes association in Akure North LGA.

The attack has sparked outrage among residents, who are demanding justice for the victims and increased security in the area. The community is urging the state government and security agencies to take swift action to prevent further attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

This incident highlights the growing insecurity in rural communities across Nigeria, where farmers and residents are increasingly vulnerable to attacks by armed groups. The lack of adequate security measures and timely intervention by authorities has left many communities at the mercy of criminals. As the police continue their investigation, the community remains on edge, hoping for a resolution that will restore peace and safety.