With incessant cases of crop destruction and cattle killings arising from disputes between farmers and herders in Olugbo and adjoining villages, the Ogun State Police Command, through Odeda Division, convened a Security Consultation/Stakeholders’ Meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, to find an amicable resolution to the crisis.
The meeting, held at the Olugbo Police Outstation at about 3:20p.m., followed a directive from the Commissioner of Police, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo, that the various ethnic nationalities residing in these villages should be engaged in dialogue that would foster mutual understanding, prevent hostility and promote peaceful coexistence.
The stakeholders’ meeting had in attendance key representatives from various groups, including Odeda Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Coordinator, Chairman of Hunters’ Group, traditional leaders, Igede Farmers Group representatives, Igbo Group representatives, Fulani/Herders representative, Youth Leaders from neighbouring villages such as, Lufodo Village, Baale Village, Arege Village, members of Agbekoya Group, Vigilante Group, Local Hunters, and other security outfits.
Among the key resolutions reached, according to a statement by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, was for all ethnic groups to prevail on their followers to embrace peace and tolerate one another.
Also, community members were urged to report disputes promptly to the police or nearby quasi-security outfits before escalation.
The police assured all parties of their commitment to swift intervention in any emerging disputes to prevent violence, with their collaboration to enforce the law.
The Command said that it remains committed to fostering peaceful coexistence and ensuring that law and order prevail across all communities.
Residents were encouraged to remain law-abiding and report any security concerns promptly to the nearest police station.
In their response, the stakeholders commended the proactive steps taken by the police and pledged their full cooperation to maintain peace and security in the region.
The meeting, which was concluded at about 5:20p.m., was widely appreciated by all participants as a timely and effective approach toward resolving longstanding conflicts.
