By Ibrahim Kilani
Farmers in the Akoko area of Ondo State, particularly cocoa farmers, are growing increasingly anxious over the rising cases of bush-fires fueled by the prolonged dry season and unchecked bush burning.
An investigation by our Akoko Correspondent revealed that most of these fires are caused by hunters in search of game, careless cigarette smokers, and individuals who recklessly set bushes ablaze.
Two cocoa farmers, Alhaji Abu Balogun from Afin Akoko and Alhaji Sarumi Adebola from Irun Akoko, have called on their fellow farmers to take proactive measures to safeguard their investments. They advised farmers to insure their plantations with reputable insurance companies, emphasizing that farm produce now yields better financial returns than in previous years.
Additionally, they urged farmers to regularly clear bushes around their farms to prevent fire outbreaks from spreading and destroying their livelihoods.
The farmers commended the Tinubu-led government for its favorable policies towards agriculture, noting that the rising value of farm commodities has made farming more lucrative. They also encouraged young people to embrace agriculture instead of chasing elusive white-collar jobs, highlighting the sector’s potential for wealth creation and food security.
