By Boluwatife Adedokun
The National Director of the Agbe Gbe’lu Network, a farmers’ advocacy group, Ola Emmanuel, has expressed concern over the lack of government support for farmers in Ogun State, calling for urgent investment in modern agricultural tools and infrastructure.
Speaking during a visit by The Alternative Movement to Afon in the Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, Emmanuel criticised the government’s priorities, noting that funds are often allocated for luxury vehicles rather than essential farming equipment like tractors and fertilisers.
“We lack tractors, fertilisers, and other modern tools. The government has been silent on our needs. While farmers struggle, SUVs are being purchased for officials. It’s a contradiction if we claim to prioritise food security,” he said.
He stressed that without proper support, smallholder farmers would continue to rely on outdated tools, limiting productivity and deepening food insecurity. Emmanuel also appealed for basic infrastructure like boreholes to support irrigation and improve yields.
Emmanuel thanked The Alternative Movement for donating farming tools and pledged continued advocacy for improved governance and political awareness in rural communities.
Representing the convener of the movement, Segun Showunmi, Mr. Adai Edwin said the group was established to awaken political consciousness and strengthen civic engagement, particularly at the grassroots.
“The era of vote buying and broken promises must end. Nigerians must see voting as a civic responsibility, not a favour,” Edwin said.
Southwest Chairman of the movement, Rev. Olusola Salau, assured farmers of continued support, regardless of political affiliation. He said the group has secured a warehouse in the state capital to help farmers store and sell their produce more profitably.
Salau also revealed plans to provide tractors and modern equipment to help farmers transition from traditional to mechanised agriculture.
There was also the distribution of fertilisers and knapsack sprayers to local farmers.
