Cassava farmers in Ekiti State have raised concerns over the alleged reallocation of 6,000 hectares of farmland, initially designated for agricultural use, to a private firm by the state government.
The farmers claim the land, which was meant to support local cassava production, has been handed over to the private company without adequate consultation or compensation, leaving many without their primary source of livelihood.
According to the farmers, the land was part of a government-led initiative to boost cassava farming and enhance food security in the state.
However, they allege that the sudden reallocation has disrupted their farming activities, with some already cultivating crops on the affected land. They argue that the move contradicts the government’s earlier promises to support smallholder farmers and improve agricultural productivity.
The farmers are calling for immediate intervention, urging the government to either return the land or provide fair compensation and alternative farming locations.
They also demand transparency in the decision-making process, questioning the criteria used to allocate the land to the private firm.
Officials from the Ekiti State government have yet to issue a formal response to the allegations. However, sources suggest that the reallocation may be part of a larger agricultural investment plan aimed at attracting private sector participation.
The situation has sparked tensions between the farmers and the government, with fears that further delays in resolving the issue could lead to protests or legal action. The farmers insist that their livelihoods must be protected and that any agricultural policy should prioritise local stakeholders.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
