Farmers in Ago-Owu Farm Settlement have been reassured by Osun Governor, Ademola Adeleke that there is no plan to evict them from their lands to pave way for mining operations.
Governor Ademola Adeleke gave this assurance while responding to recent expressions of concern from farmers in the farm settlement over observed mining activities on their farmlands.
Giving the assurance in a statement on Friday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke clarified that the individuals seen on farmland are part of a government-led initiative to map the state’s solid mineral resources.
He disclosed that the effort is being carried out by the state’s Solid Minerals Office.
“The activities allegedly seen on some farmlands are part of the ongoing mapping of the entire state. This is being done to assess mineral potential and does not involve any mining or displacement of farmers.
“The mapping exercise involves soil testing and data collection across several towns and villages. It is a key component of the state’s integrated strategy to identify and harness both exploited and untapped mineral resources.”;
Adeleke emphasised that the project is strictly exploratory and has not been followed by any approved mining activity, especially in areas where farmers have raised concerns.
“His Excellency reassures the farming community that there is no plan to evict farmers for mining activities. We encourage cooperation with state officials,”; the statement added.
The governor further reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and safeguarding the interests of farmers across the state.
He assured residents that any action taken would be done with public interest in mind.
“Our governor understands the importance of the farming community and would not approve any decision that may be injurious to farmers or any resident or citizen of Osun State.”;
Farmers in the affected areas have been advised to remain calm and continue with their farming activities as usual.
The state government also urged communities to report any unauthorised activity not linked to the official survey.
DAILY POST had earlier reported that over 24,000 farm settlers in the Ago-Owu area of Osun State have raised alarm over a looming eviction threat following a state government directive granting permission for mining exploration within the settlement.
The farmers have called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to intervene and halt any planned activities that may disrupt farming operations and displace thousands of livelihoods.
The President of the Ago-Owu Farm Settlers, Adebanji Obembe, made the appeal directly to the state governor and the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun.
Obembe revealed that a letter issued by the Special Adviser on Mining and Minerals, Lukman Jimoda, permitted a private company to carry out mineral tests and exploration within parts of the farm settlement.
