In the Ìrele Local Government Area of Ondo State, residents of Ìrele community are distressed by the growing number of attacks on their community. These attacks have resulted in injuries to residents and destruction of farmlands, believed to be the work of hoodlums.
Speaking separately in telephone interviews with PUNCH Metro on Thursday, some residents expressed fear due to the frequent attacks, causing many to leave the area in search of safer locations.
Originally under Ikale Local Government Area with headquarters in Okitipupa, Irele community was established in 1991 when the Federal Government created more local governments nationwide, resulting in the formation of Irele Local Government with headquarters now located in Irele.
Videos shared via WhatsApp with our correspondent on Thursday reveal the aftermath of the attacks, showing houses and motorcycles reportedly burnt by the hoodlums.
Observations made by our correspondent also indicate the destruction of plantain plantations and the wooden canoes used by residents for transportation to nearby communities.
One resident, Mr. Fashadeju Wokan, expressed frustration over the lack of action from the police despite reporting multiple attacks by bandits. He mentioned how the attackers, masked and arriving on motorcycles, have disrupted farmers and polluted water sources.
Detailing the impact of the attacks, Wokan mentioned a devastating incident in March 2024 that forced many residents to seek refuge in Irele Township.
The Baale of Eyinrowo, Chief Samuel Akinduyigbe, appealed for government intervention to halt the attacks, highlighting how the fear of more attacks has deterred residents from tending to their farms.
Echoing similar sentiments, Chief Tola Omogunwa, the Igbeleju of Irele, described the community as helpless following the attacks, which have driven residents away from their farms.
Responding to the community’s concerns, the spokesperson for the state police command, Ibukun Odunlami, advised residents to approach the area command to escalate their complaints if they believe their reports have not received adequate attention.