The Ojomo Oluda of Ijebu-Owo Kingdom, Oba Kofoworola Oladoyinbo, has called on the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to grant farmers in the state licenses to bear arms for their protection and to safeguard their farmlands against herdsmen.
The monarch made this appeal on Saturday during his 20th coronation anniversary and the launch of his book titled “Understanding the Essence of Our Persistence: The Story of Our People.”
Oba Oladoyinbo lamented the persistent attacks on farmers by herdsmen in the state and across the country, noting that such acts could have been averted if farmers were licensed to bear arms.
His words, “While we commend the state government on its efforts in strengthening security in the state, the security of our farmers is absolutely important. If herdsmen can be freely carrying military-breaded weapons to guard their animals, the other person (Farmers) should not be denied such right to defend himself and his farms”.
Commending the state government’s efforts regarding the welfare of traditional institutions, he urged the governor to intensify efforts to eradicate hunger in the state.
“Palliative alone can’t not end hunger in the state, we are enjoining the state governor to intensify efforts towards eradicating hunger on the land”.
On protests, the monarch decried violence among demonstrators, emphasizing that protests must remain peaceful to achieve their goals.
“While protest is a legitimate right of the citizens, we urge demonstrators to shun all forms of violence”.
On his part, the Governor of the State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa hailed the monarch for leveraging his royal and military influence for the growth and development of the town.
Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, stressed that his administration has been enjoying seamless collaboration with traditional rulers in the state, which has transcended into a symbiotic relationship.
“Your giant strides In the public sector and military befitted you before you become the Monarch. I commend your royal influence in attracting goodness to our land.
“Ondo has been enjoying seamless relationships between the government and the traditional institution. Our government has been enjoying the relationship and it has remained a symbiotic relationship.
“I urge you not to relent in your efforts in collaborating with the governments. It is my prayer that this beautiful land of honour will continue to bring goodness and good fruits”. He said