By Adesakin Adefemi
The forests of Osun State are under threat, with allegations emerging that unscrupulous individuals, allegedly with government backing, are engaging in large-scale deforestation, sparking fears of environmental disaster and widespread devastation.
According to High Chief Comrade Amitolu Shittu, former Chairman of the Trees Planters Association of Nigeria, Osun State Chapter, the looting of the state’s commonwealth has reached alarming levels, with some government agents and agencies accused of granting approvals for the clear-cutting of forests, particularly on weekends.
Shittu, a prominent humanitarian, human and environmental rights activist, and anti-corruption crusader, has sounded the alarm, warning that the unchecked destruction of Osun’s forests will have catastrophic consequences, including unimaginable losses to the state’s ecosystem and residents.
The alleged deforestation has sparked outrage, with many questioning the motives behind the government’s actions. “The way and manner trees are being cut down in some of our forests reserves across Osun State for personal economic gains portrayed the present government in a bad light,” Shittu lamented.
The Osun State Government has been urged to take immediate action to halt the destruction of the state’s forests and bring those responsible to justice. Shittu emphasized that the Osun commonwealth must not be looted dry, and that the government must prioritize the welfare and interests of its citizens.
The deforestation has also raised concerns about the impact on the state’s biodiversity, climate, and water resources. Environmental experts warn that the loss of forests will exacerbate climate change, leading to severe consequences, including droughts, floods, and soil erosion.
Shittu has called on the government to take concrete steps to protect the state’s forests, including deploying adequate security personnel to forest reserves, prosecuting those involved in illegal logging, and launching an investigation into the approval process for forest exploitation.
The Osun State Government must act swiftly to address the allegations of government-sanctioned deforestation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The future of Osun’s forests and the well-being of its residents depend on it.
