Ogun State government has called for peace and mutual understanding among investors, farmers and other stakeholders within its forest reserves.
Commissioner for Forestry, Engr. Taiwo Oludotun, who made the call at a peace meeting with stakeholders from Ilaro, at the Ministry’s Conference Room, said investors were partners in progress, assuring that government was determined to protect their interests and investments.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Forestry, Mr. Timothy Olatunji, the Commissioner frowned at the influx of herdsmen within Ilaro Forest Reserve, warning that such unwholesome act should henceforth stop, while calling on the leaders of the herdsmen to be more proactive at ensuring their members keep off the forest reserves.
“Government would no longer fold its arms and watch herdsmen threaten law-abiding citizens with dangerous weapons and AK-47 rifles in and around the Forest”, he said.
“In the olden days, it was only spears and long sticks that herdsmen are known to carry, unlike nowadays when they handle dangerous weapons when they are not going to war front”, he said.
Contributing, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, Alhaji Hadi Sani, assured the investors that the state government would put all machinery in action, to protect its investments.
On his part, a representative of the investors, Prince Bayo Kuyeri of Domedayo Farms, appreciated government for securing their investments, calling on farmers to cooperate with them to ensure peace and progress within the forest reserves.
Also speaking, Chairman, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Ado-Odo/Ota, Ipokia and Yewa Local Governments, Alhaji Musa Adams, promised to call his members to order.
Kayode Oduyebo & Luke Adebesin
Press Officers Ministry of Forestry.
