Kwara farmers’ association rejects suspension order, appeals to Gov AbdulRazaq to intervene
The Kwara state chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has rejected the suspension of its State Working Committee (SWC) led by Hon. Umar Mahmud Aboki by the state’s commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afeez Abolore Alabi.
It would be recalled that the Ministry, in a statement issued earlier, announced the formation of a seven-member caretaker committee to represent the interests of farmers in the state.
According to the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Afeez Abolore Alabi, the move was necessary to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in the administration of agricultural support programs.
The ministry stated that the caretaker committee, drawn from different interest groups within the sector, would oversee the fair distribution of agricultural inputs and ensure better engagement with farmers.
AFAN suspended, caretaker committee formed to address farmers’ leadership tussle in Kwara
“The idea is to allow for a more inclusive environment in the agricultural value chain, improve transparency and better reporting on local activities, and ensure that inputs reach the intended farmers, especially in preparation for the upcoming planting season,” the statement read.
However, the Umar Mahmud Aboki-led leadership of AFAN swiftly rejected the purported suspension, describing it as illegal, unconstitutional, and an attempt to undermine the independence of the association.
In a counter-statement issued by AFAN’s State Working Committee (SWC), the association insisted that it remains an independent, registered non-governmental body governed by its constitution and national leadership. The group stressed that the Ministry of Agriculture had no authority to interfere in its internal affairs.
“As a professional body, AFAN owes its allegiance solely to its national leadership, and any decision concerning its leadership structure remains the exclusive prerogative of its members and the national executive. Any external interference in its affairs amounts to an overreach and an abuse of administrative power,” the statement read.
The association appealed to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to intervene and rein in the Commissioner, warning that any attempts to destabilize the group could negatively impact the state’s agricultural sector.
