Farming Is Death Sentence Now': Insecurity, Kidnappings Force Kwara Farmers To Turn To ‘Okada’ Riding For Survival

For decades, farming has been the backbone of rural livelihoods in Kwara State, providing food, employment and a sense of purpose for thousands of families. Today, that tradition is collapsing under the weight of rising insecurity. Frequent attacks by armed groups, kidnappings for ransom and violent invasions of farmlands have turned agriculture into a life-threatening venture for many farmers across the state.

Residents of affected communities say farmers are routinely chased away from their fields, while some have been abducted or killed during routine farm activities. As fear spreads, many farmers have abandoned their crops mid-season, choosing safety over sustenance. With no viable alternatives and mounting economic pressure, a growing number have turned to commercial motorcycle riding, popularly known as “okada,” as a means of survival.

The shift has worsened food shortages and driven up prices, deepening hardship for households already struggling with inflation. Farmers are calling on the government and security agencies to urgently restore peace, warning that without decisive action, both livelihoods and food security in Kwara State will remain under serious threat.