Youths of Ayede Ogbese in Akure North Local Council Area of Ondo State yesterday barricaded the busy Akure-Owo highway in protest over the killing of a farmer, Ben Daniels, by suspected herders.

The protest, which lasted several hours, paralysed vehicular movement and left commuters stranded, as residents decried what they described as persistent insecurity in the area.

According to the protesters, Daniels was attacked and killed on Monday night while returning from his farm. They said the incident occurred a few metres from a police checkpoint in the community.

The demonstrators carried placards with inscriptions such as “They have finished us in Ayede Ogbese”, “We need an army checkpoint here in Ogbese”, “Stop insecurity in our community”, and “We need answers to our questions”.

Meanwhile, the state government has directed security agencies to intensify efforts against kidnapping syndicates, stating that investigations indicate some of the crimes are being orchestrated by locals.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the government said significant investments had been made to strengthen the state’s security architecture.

“The Ondo State Government has expressed deep concern over the recent kidnapping incidents in the state, which have been discovered to be orchestrated by some locals, and has directed all security agencies to crack down on them.

“The government is aware that unscrupulous elements seek to use criminal activities to portray Ondo State as unsafe. Such acts are unacceptable and will be met with firm and lawful action.”

“Security agencies have been directed to intensify surveillance and clamp down on individuals or groups involved in these activities. Those found culpable will be apprehended, investigated and brought to justice in accordance with the law.

“Traditional rulers are urged to remain vigilant and monitor activities within their domains, and to promptly report any suspicious movements to the appropriate security agencies. Community-based intelligence remains critical in the fight against crime.”

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, Abayomi Jimoh, urged residents to refrain from blocking highways or engaging in actions that could disrupt public peace.

He assured that due process would be followed to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the attack.