Insecurity in Nigeria’s Farms: Farmers Raise Alarm Over Food Security

Farmers in Nigeria have expressed grave concerns over the increasing insecurity in the country, which they say is threatening food security.

According to the National President of Cocoa and Plantain Farmers Association of Nigeria (CPFAN), Ayodele Ojo, farmers have been forced to abandon their farmlands due to the fear of being kidnapped or killed, while bandits and kidnappers have taken over the farms.

Ojo emphasizes that farmers cannot access their farms to harvest their produce, which is due for harvest, and some have even had to pay ransom for their freedom.

He also points out that the security agencies are helpless in the face of this crisis.

The President of the farmers association has called on both the state and federal government to address the issues of insecurity in order to prevent a looming food crisis.

He also rejected outrightly the creation of grazing zones for herders across the country, citing the potential for further conflict between farmers and herders.

Ojo suggests that the government should instead allocate more funds and farm inputs to farmers, as well as provide adequate security in villages and communities.

He emphasizes that finding a lasting solution to the problem of food security should be a priority, and that farmers are ready to work with the government to ensure food abundance in Nigeria.

As the situation worsens, the farmers have urged the National Assembly to look into the call for the creation of grazing zones, and to find a more effective solution to the issues of insecurity and food scarcity.

With the threat of food insecurity looming, it is crucial for the government to take immediate action to support the nation’s farmers and ensure the safety of their livelihoods.