Tension swept through the Ago-Owu Farm Settlement as over 24,000 farmers feared they were on the verge of eviction. Their worry followed a letter authorizing mining exploration in the area, a move they believed could upend livelihoods built over generations.
The farmers, led by President of the Ago-Owu Farm Settlers, Adebanji Obembe, made a direct appeal to Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun.
They urged the government to halt any activity that could disrupt farming operations or displace residents.
Their concern stemmed from a directive issued by the Special Adviser on Mining and Minerals, Lukman Jimoda, which reportedly granted permission to a private firm to carry out mineral testing within the farm settlement.
In swift response, Governor Adeleke stepped in to clear the air. Addressing the issue through a statement released on the 1st of May, 2025, by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor stated plainly that “there is no plan to evict them from their lands to pave way for mining operations.”
Governor Adeleke explained that the individuals seen working on the farmland are not miners but part of a state-led initiative to identify Osun’s mineral wealth.
“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,” he said.
According to the statement, the mapping project is being carried out by the state’s Solid Minerals Office and focuses on soil testing and data collection across various communities.
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“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.”
Governor Adeleke was firm in his reassurance.
“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 read.
He emphasized that the exercise is exploratory, with no mining activity approved in the affected areas.
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to agriculture and the welfare of Osun residents.
“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 have been asked to remain calm and continue their farming routines. The government also advised communities to report any activity not linked to the official survey.
The message is clear: Osun’s soil may be rich in minerals, but Governor Adeleke is standing firm on protecting the hands that till it.