According to the statement, the subsequent attacks in other Akoko settlements have created a climate of fear and panic, necessitating urgent action from Your Excellency.
The Ondo State Scholars Arena For Development Initiative has urged President Bola Tinubu and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take decisive action to end these senseless killings and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens in the country.
The group asserted that the duty of government is to ensure peaceful coexistence, saying they expect nothing less from your leadership.
The initiative made this known in a statement jointly signed by Moyoloye Oloruntimilehin Julius, Secretary; Akeredolu Temitope, Esq, Cordinator, Ondo North; Emmanuel Adedipe, Coordinator, Ondo Central; Lade Ebiwonno, Esq, Cordinator, Ondo South and Odofin Oluwafemi (C-Banking), Convener.
It explained that the recent extrajudicial execution of Sunday Ayeni, a 34-year-old farmer from Oba-Oka, Akoko South-West LGA, by suspected herdsmen is a stark reminder of the government's dereliction of duty in protecting its citizens.
According to the statement, the subsequent attacks in other Akoko settlements have created a climate of fear and panic, necessitating urgent action from Your Excellency.
The statement reads in part; "We, the members of Ondo State Scholars Arena For Development Initiative, are compelled to express our utmost consternation and dismay at the incessant and egregious killings of innocent citizens in Oba Akoko, Ondo State. The insouciant attitude of the government towards this heinous crime is utterly reprehensible and warrants immediate attention.
"The recent extrajudicial execution of Sunday Ayeni, a 34-year-old farmer from Oba-Oka, Akoko South-West LGA, by suspected herdsmen is a stark reminder of the government's dereliction of duty in protecting its citizens. The subsequent attacks in other Akoko settlements have created a climate of fear and panic, necessitating urgent action from Your Excellency.
"We are perplexed by the government's taciturnity on this matter, as evidenced by the absence of any statement condemning these arbitrary killings on the official handles of your media aides.
The protest by half-naked women in Akoko SW LGA, Ondo North, is a testament to the desperation and anguish of the affected communities.
"As the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Ondo State, it is Your Excellency's sacrosanct duty to protect the lives and properties of citizens, as enshrined in Section 33 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended). The current security situation in the Akoko/Ose area demands a more robust and decisive response from the state government, rather than a grandstanding posture.
"We implore Your Excellency to take immediate cognizance of your duty and address this development to prevent further barbaric killings of farmers in their farms and environments. The following measures are imperative:
"Deployment of security personnel to affected areas to protect lives and properties. Facilitation of open discussions between herders and farmers to resolve conflicts peaceful. Implementation of effective livestock management practices to reduce tensions in host communities.
"Establishment of constituted donors or agencies to provide aid and support to victims' families and affected communities.
"The government should as a matter of urgency involve in domestic socialisation and intelligence gathering.
"Ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and face the full weight of the law.
"Furthermore, we recommend the following: Public Address: Address the people of Ondo State, condemning the killings and outlining a clear plan of action.
"Emergency Meeting: Convene an emergency meeting with security agencies, herder and farmer representatives, and community leaders .
"Task Force Establishment: Set up a task force to oversee the implementation of solutions and maintain peace.
"We urge Your Excellency to take decisive action to end these senseless killings and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens. The duty of government is to ensure peaceful coexistence, and we expect nothing less from your leadership."