Women from Akoko Southwest Local Government Area of Ondo State took to the streets half-naked to protest the relentless kidnapping and killings allegedly perpetrated by suspected herdsmen in their community.
The protest, which occurred barely 24 hours after the killing of 34-year-old farmer Sunday Ayeni, aimed to raise awareness about the security concerns and demand immediate action to address the violence.
The women, dressed in various garments and without head coverings, stormed the palace of Olubaka of Oka Akoko, Oba Adebori Adeleye, during a security meeting. Chanting war songs, they condemned the recent violence, called for justice for Ayeni, and an end to herdsmen attacks in the region.
They also reported that suspected herdsmen had raped women on their farmlands and destroyed crops. The women vowed to no longer tolerate harassment, torture, and kidnappings by herdsmen.
Mrs. Abigail Ojo, speaking for the protesters, described how they had nearly abandoned their farms due to the violence and urged state security agencies to find effective solutions.
The monarch assured that the matter would be addressed by relevant authorities, acknowledging that Akoko communities are already struggling with security issues. He promised to present the women’s concerns to both the State and Federal Governments for urgent intervention.
