Kwara farmers decry persistent attacks by hoodlums

A group of young farmers in Tsaragi, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, have raised alarm over frequent attacks by suspected hoodlums within and outside their community.

In a statement released by their spokesperson, Abiola Aliu Bolarinwa, and made available to journalists in Ilorin, the farmers described the attackers as religious extremists who often target non-native farmers engaged in commercial agriculture in the area.

Bolarinwa warned that the continued harassment and destruction of farmlands could severely impact food production and threaten food security in Kwara State and the nation at large.

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He alleged that the perpetrators include both local residents and outsiders, and that the attacks are mostly directed at non-indigenous farmers.

Sharing his personal ordeal, Bolarinwa revealed he became a target after converting to Christianity a few months ago.

He recounted facing verbal abuse, discrimination, and repeated destruction of his crops, adding that his life has been threatened and that he has been forced to flee for safety.

“We are encouraged by the government to go into farming to support food security.

“Many of us turned to commercial agriculture after other livelihoods became unsustainable. Yet, this insecurity is discouraging and life-threatening,” he said.

According to him, the farmers cultivate crops such as yam, pepper, maize, soybeans, and potatoes.

He warned that unchecked violence could lead to reduced agricultural output in the region.

The group called on key stakeholders, security agencies—including the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the police—as well as the Kwara State government, to urgently intervene and restore peace before the situation escalates further.