Ogun Farmers Allege Extortion, Seek Governor’s Help Over Riders’ Permit

Farmers in Imeko/Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State have appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene in what they describe as ongoing harassment, intimidation, and illegal collection of fees for riders’ permits.

Speaking under the group Concerned Farmers, spokesperson Mr. Adesina Alabi alleged that farmers are being coerced into paying ₦8,000 for motorcycle riders’ permits, despite not using their motorcycles for commercial transport. He accused one Mr. Sunday Yedeyede of spearheading the harassment, despite prior intervention by the local government chairman, Theophilus Olorode.

Alabi stated that Yedeyede and his associates go from village to village threatening to seize motorcycles if farmers do not pay the fee, which by law is only meant for commercial motorcyclists. “Over 60 farmers have been forced to pay for the permit,” Alabi claimed, calling the move “pure extortion.”

Isaac Durosinmi, a farmer from Olorunda village, shared a similar experience, saying he was stopped on the way to Obada Market and extorted ₦1,000 by the group.

In response, Yedeyede denied the accusations, insisting that no farmer was forced and that permits were obtained voluntarily. However, he acknowledged that there is confusion over enforcement roles. “The police said the permit is for commercial operators, but those who gave us the task say it applies to everyone,” he said, adding that a resolution meeting is scheduled for June 12.

Chairman Olorode confirmed awareness of the issue and said he had summoned Yedeyede to stop the practice, claiming the matter had been resolved. He urged anyone facing continued harassment to contact him directly, suggesting that some complaints may be based on past incidents.

Farmers, however, remain unconvinced and are asking the governor to step in decisively to prevent further extortion and ensure that only commercial motorcycle users are required to pay for riders’ permits.