Fulani Herdsmen Attacks Leave Ondo State Residents Gripped By Fear

Fulani Herdsmen Attacks Leave Community in Arimogija Ose, Ondo State Gripped by Fear and Insecurity

In a series of renewed attacks, bandits have unleashed terror on the residents of Arimogija in the Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, resulting in the loss of lives and the abduction of several individuals. The bandits targeted innocent residents while they were traveling or going about their daily activities, leaving the community in a state of shock and fear.

According to a resident of Arimogija, who preferred to be identified as Patrick for security reasons, the attacks occurred both on the farm and along the road. In one instance, a man and his son were ambushed by the herdsmen while on their way to the farm. Tragically, the man lost his life during the attack, and his son was abducted by the assailants. Last week, the same group of herdsmen kidnapped three other individuals, releasing them only after a ransom payment was made.

Another incident involved the targeted attack on a Volkswagen Passat station wagon, resulting in gunshot injuries to all the passengers on board. Shockingly, one of the victims, known as Super, was killed during the attack, while Mama Ovie is currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.

In a neighboring community called Ijagba, residents also expressed their deep concerns over the frequent attacks, kidnappings, and killings perpetrated by suspected herdsmen. The leader of the community, High Chief Sunday Ogoh, made a passionate plea to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, and the security agencies in the state, urging them to intervene and provide much-needed protection for the community. High Chief Ogoh emphasized that their lives and properties were at stake, recounting the recent tragic loss of Isaac Odeh, a well-respected member of the community, and the abduction of his son.

The incidents have left the entire community living in constant fear, unable to engage in farming activities or sleep peacefully at night. High Chief Ogoh also highlighted that the security challenges extended to other neighboring communities, including Imoru, Molege, Arimagija, Ute, and Okeluse, urging the state government to establish a strong military presence in the region.

Confirming the incidents, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, assured the community that the police were actively investigating the attacks. She pledged that those responsible for the acts of violence would be apprehended and brought to justice.

In another incident on Saturday, gunmen targeted Alhaji Ibrahim Oyinlade, a Muslim cleric, at Asolo Camp in Uso community, located in the Owo Local Government Area of the state.

Alhaji Ibrahim Oyinlade

The cleric was reportedly working on his farm when the hoodlums abducted him and whisked him away to an unknown destination. The family of the victim has been contacted by the kidnappers, although they have not yet made any ransom demands.

The Uso Police Division has been alerted to the incident, and efforts are underway to locate and rescue the kidnapped cleric. Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, the police spokesperson, confirmed the incident, assuring the public that the police, in collaboration with local vigilantes, were actively searching the surrounding areas to locate the missing cleric and bring him back safely.

These recent incidents of banditry, violence, and abductions have left the residents of Ondo State deeply concerned about their safety and well-being. The need for enhanced security measures and swift action from the authorities is paramount to restore peace and protect the lives and properties of the affected communities. It is our collective responsibility to support and stand in solidarity with the people of Ondo State during these challenging times, as we strive for a safer and more secure environment for all.