KEY POINTS
- Kwara South Development Forum criticised the distribution of farm inputs to Fulani farmers, calling it insensitive amid insecurity.
- The group said many local farmers have fled due to attacks, leaving farmlands abandoned and communities vulnerable.
- It urged leaders to prioritise security, avoid politicising the crisis, and support displaced residents.
A socio-political group, the Kwara South Development Forum, has strongly criticised the distribution of farm inputs to Fulani communities in the region by the Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode (MOK) Foundation.
The group described the move as insensitive, especially at a time when insecurity continues to disrupt lives and livelihoods across Kwara South. According to the forum, the gesture appears disconnected from the harsh realities many residents are currently facing, including fear, displacement, and loss of farmland.
The group’s leadership, through its convener Obashola Ayomide Ridwan and secretary Olasehinde O. Oluwatoba, argued that such interventions should be carefully targeted to avoid worsening tensions. They believe the decision to support Fulani farmers, in the current climate, sends the wrong signal to affected communities.
The forum expressed worry that many indigenous Yoruba farmers have been forced to flee their communities due to repeated attacks and threats. As a result, farmlands have been left unattended, with allegations that some of these lands are now being occupied by Fulani herders.
They described the situation as both troubling and unfair, noting that those who have been displaced are yet to receive adequate support or protection. The group insisted that any form of agricultural empowerment should first address the needs of those who have lost their means of livelihood due to insecurity.
Aid distribution seen as overlooking security crisis
According to the forum, the MOK Foundation recently distributed items such as fertilisers, agrochemicals, pesticides, and knapsack sprayers to Fulani farmers. While such initiatives are generally meant to boost food production, the group argued that this particular effort ignores the ongoing security challenges in the region.
They claimed that empowering individuals who are being accused—rightly or wrongly—of contributing to the crisis could deepen mistrust and resentment among local communities. The forum stressed that interventions must be conflict-sensitive and aligned with efforts to restore peace.
To support its position, the group pointed to several recent security incidents across Kwara South. These include the abduction of a traditional ruler, the kidnapping of a school proprietor, and the reported capture of worshippers in different communities. They also mentioned the killing of vigilantes, which they attributed to suspected herdsmen.
These events, the forum said, highlight the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for coordinated action. They argued that any initiative that appears to ignore these realities risks undermining efforts to restore stability.
