Eruwa residents cry out over incessant attacks, killing of 70-year-old farmer

​REPORTS from Eruwa in Oyo State indicate a growing sense of unease as residents and farmers have raised an alarm over the recent surge in violent attacks and the destruction of farmlands by suspected armed assailants.

​The community is currently reeling from the tragic death of a 70-year-old farmer, identified as Ogunleye Lateef Bukola, who was reportedly ambushed and killed on July 19, 2025, while tending to his crops. The killing has sent shockwaves through the agrarian settlements, with many farmers now deserting their fields for fear of further bloodshed.

​Investigations by our correspondent revealed that the most affected areas include Alape Village, Owode, and Olopoto Village. Residents in these locations have lamented the frequent invasion of their farms, which often results in the massive destruction of crops and the vandalisation of valuable farm property.

​A community leader in Alaye Village, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, described the situation as a direct threat to the survival of the people. According to him, the attacks have become more frequent in recent months, leaving the villagers feeling helpless and abandoned.

​“This is no longer an isolated incident. Our people are being driven away from their farms. If we cannot go to our farms, we cannot eat. The government must act before we lose everything,” he said.

​While some locals have attributed the attacks to armed herders, there has been no official confirmation from the authorities regarding the identity of the perpetrators. This development, however, mirrors the ongoing tensions across various parts of the country involving land-use disputes and grazing rights.

​The residents are now calling on the Oyo State Government and the Nigeria Police Force to provide an urgent security intervention. They are demanding increased patrols in the rural outskirts and a more proactive approach to intelligence gathering to forestall future attacks.

​In addition to immediate security reinforcements, stakeholders in the area have advocated for structured dialogue and clearer land-use policies to address the root causes of the friction between farmers and invaders.

​As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Oyo State Police Command for an official reaction proved abortive, as calls to the relevant authorities went unanswered.

​The atmosphere in Eruwa remains tense, as the farming community continues to mourn its dead while keeping a wary eye on the thickets that once promised a bountiful harvest.