Concern Grows Over Illegal Cocoa Farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria
A pressing environmental concern is brewing in Ogun State, Nigeria, as timber merchants express frustration over the rampant destruction of economic trees by illegal cocoa farmers in the Omo forest reserves J4, Ijebu Ode local government area.
The Ijebu Sawmillers and Timber Contractors Association has reported a staggering loss of over N500 million annually due to the illegal activities, as the farmers use chemicals to kill the economically valuable trees, which are often replanted with cocoa and banana crops.
The chairman of the association, Aliu Ibrahim, emphasized the alarming rate at which the illegal farmers are taking over the forest reserves, with over 90% of those responsible hailing from outside the state, including Benue, Edo, Kwara, Osun, Nasarawa, and Ondo.
In a bid to salvage the situation, the association has urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene, citing the example of Ondo State, which took similar measures and was successful in sanitizing its own forest reserves.
The situation has become increasingly perilous, with the illegal cocoa farmers being armed and prepared to attack those who oppose their activities. According to Opeoluwa Idowu, the Secretary of the association, this cannot continue unchecked, particularly in an area that remains a vital source of economic activity for the region.
The government, however, appears to be taking the issue seriously, with Commissioner for Forestry, Engr Taiwo Oludotun, confirming that steps are being taken to address the problem. With the fate of the region’s timber industry hanging in the balance, it is crucial that a comprehensive solution is implemented to protect this valuable resource.
The clock is ticking, and urgent action is needed to restore the Omo forest reserves to their former glory, ensuring a sustainable future for the timber industry and the communities that rely on it.
