The Ondo State Government has dismissed reports that armed herdsmen attacked four communities in Akure North Local Government, allegedly killing at least 14 people.
Olugbenga Atiba, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, described the reports as “absolute falsehood” aimed at causing unnecessary panic among residents.
However, contrary to the government’s stance, local sources insist the attack took place, resulting in multiple deaths. Reports suggest that 14 bodies were recovered following the assault on Aba Alajido, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Ademekun communities on Friday night.
On Monday, the Regent of Ademekun Community, Adelowo Adekemisola, confirmed that 14 people were killed.
“Our attention has been drawn to a malicious report being circulated by some sections of the online media, claiming that armed herdsmen attacked communities in Ondo State and killed some farmers.
“For the umpteenth time, we advise the purveyors of this hoax to desist from such an act that is capable of creating chaos, disunity, and distrust between the people and the government,” the government’s statement read.
Despite this, Adekemisola maintained that her community suffered a deadly attack.
“Fourteen people were killed last weekend by herdsmen who infiltrated my community and started shooting sporadically. The community has been battling the herdsmen problem for the past six years,” she stated.
Speaking at a town hall meeting with cocoa farmers at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Akure, Adekemisola alleged that the attackers crossed into Ondo from the Edo-Ondo border before launching their assault. She urged the state government and security agencies to take swift action.
Another resident, identified only as Sunday, claimed the death toll was much higher, suggesting over 40 people were killed, forcing many to flee their homes.
“They attacked our communities on Friday night while we were asleep. They opened fire on everyone in sight. Many ran into the bush for safety, but some were not so lucky. I am sure that over 40 people have been killed, while many others sustained injuries.
“On Sunday, security operatives came and recovered some corpses. Many bodies are still missing in the bush,” he said.
A police source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that officers were deployed to the area immediately after the attack was reported on Saturday.
“As I speak to you, about 14 bodies have been recovered in the villages,” the source disclosed.
Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, stated that an investigation was underway, and police had been deployed to restore order.
“On Saturday, we received a report that the Aba Pastor community was attacked. Immediately, the command swung into action to ensure normalcy is restored and to arrest the perpetrators,” she said.
