Six individuals have been arrested by the Ondo State Government for allegedly cultivating Indian hemp within the Queen’s Plot section of the Akure forest reserve.
The arrests form part of a broader state initiative to crack down on illegal cannabis farming and the unlawful occupation of protected forest areas.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Akure, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Mr Leye Akinola, confirmed the arrests and underlined the government’s firm position against the degradation of its forests through illicit agricultural activity.
“This marks a crucial development in our ongoing campaign against cannabis farming and the destruction of forest reserves,” Mr Akinola said. “We apprehended six individuals who had cleared parts of a protected area to plant Indian hemp. Such actions are not only criminal but also pose a significant threat to our environment.”
He criticised the increasing number of suspected cannabis farmers arriving from outside the state, describing their actions as harmful to both ecological balance and public welfare.
“Our forests are not safe havens for illegal cultivation,” he warned. “Anyone caught flouting the law will be dealt with accordingly.”
The Commissioner explained that the section of the forest where the suspects were apprehended is under strict protection, with a complete ban on logging, farming, and any form of human interference.
Also addressing the press, Mr Segun Odusanya, Permanent Secretary for Forestry and Produce, reiterated the state government’s determination to defend its forests against unlawful exploitation.
He said a thorough investigation would be carried out and that the suspects would be prosecuted in accordance with existing forestry laws.
Mr Odusanya also praised the Nigeria Forest Security Services for their timely intervention. Acting on intelligence, the agency worked in partnership with the state authorities to carry out the arrests.
“Their swift response was key. We moved quickly thanks to their cooperation,” he said.
Both officials issued a clear warning that further arrests would follow if the illegal cultivation of cannabis and the violation of forest reserves continue.
They reaffirmed that Queen’s Plot and other designated forest areas remain fully protected under state law and insisted that the government will take all necessary measures to prevent further environmental damage caused by unauthorised farming.
The six suspects remain in custody and are expected to be formally charged in the coming days.