Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
RESIDENTS of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State have been thrown into fear following the brutal killing of a woman by suspected herdsmen at Oderemi Village.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday evening, left hundreds of residents in shock amid concerns over possible renewed hostilities between local farmers and herders in the area.
The victim, identified as Mrs Misitura Akanke, was reportedly attacked when she went to gather vegetables in a nearby bush.
According to sources, the assailants allegedly raped and killed her on her farm in Oderemi Village.
An operative of the state security outfit, Amotekun, who attempted to intervene during the attack, was also reportedly assaulted and sustained injuries.
The killing has heightened security concerns within the community, prompting calls for urgent intervention by authorities to ensure justice and prevent further violence.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, appealed for calm while reaffirming the enforcement of the state’s ban on open grazing within the council area.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Adeojo described the incident as tragic and deeply regrettable, expressing condolences to the family of the deceased.
He noted that the killing underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of the anti–open grazing law to safeguard lives and property.
“I write to commiserate with the family of Mrs Misitura Akanke, who was unfortunately killed by suspected herdsmen in Oderemi Village.
This unfortunate incident further highlights the necessity for firm and consistent enforcement of the state law banning open grazing,” the statement read.
The chairman said the directive was in line with the 2019 Anti–Open Grazing Law enacted by the Oyo State House of Assembly and in compliance with the position of His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He added that the decision also followed engagements with Miyetti Allah on modern ranching practices, stressing that open grazing has now been officially prohibited across Ido Local Government Area.
According to Adeojo, the prohibition is aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices, protecting farmlands, and ensuring lasting peace and security in all communities within the council.
He warned that compliance with the directive is mandatory and applies uniformly to all stakeholders, adding that any individual or group found violating the ban would face appropriate legal action.
The chairman assured residents that the local government would collaborate closely with security agencies to enforce the law and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
He also urged community members to cooperate with authorities by providing timely information to forestall security threats.
