Oyo: Many feared killed as security agents, herders clash

Oyo: Many feared killed as security agents, herders clash

There was palpable fear at Apalokun village in the Iwerele, Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State, as many persons were reportedly feared dead in a clash between Operation Burst, Oodua Peoples Congress, Amotekun, Soludero and a group of Fulani herdmen.

Investigations by The PUNCH correspondent revealed that a group of Fulani herdsmen invaded a farm in the community with their cattle and grazed on it, a situation which led to the demise of the owner of the farm during the argument.

Also, crops worth thousands of naira were destroyed in the process.

The unfortunate incident, which happened on Saturday, October 14, had thrown the entire community into a state of panic.

An informed titled chief in the community, who did not want his name in print, said, “Security operatives, comprising Operation Burst, OPC, Amotekun and Soludero, were informed to restore peace in the area but they were allegedly ambushed by Fulani herdsmen, killing yet-to-be-identified persons while scores were injured. “The matter is being investigated by the various security agencies in the state; you will also be updated at the appropriate time. The heads of the various security agencies have met with the relevant stakeholders, including the representatives of the Fulani and the community heads.”

An impeccable government source lamented that “Many people were killed. Our people started blaming former President Olusegun Obasanjo when he talked about our traditional rulers recently.

It’s time to find a permanent solution to this unreasonable killing and our obas have a big role to play.”

As of press time, all efforts to get the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso’s reaction to the crisis were not successful as he neither picked up his calls nor responded to a text message. Punch