Women Lead the Shift from Illicit Indian Hemp Farming in Ondo State
In recent months, Ondo State has seen a focused effort to replace the cultivation of Indian hemp—locally known as cannabis—with lawful, sustainable crops. This initiative, driven by a partnership between the Flight Lieutenant Ohai Prosper Idonije Foundation (FLPOIF) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), places women at the centre of behavioural change and economic empowerment.
Programme Overview and Objectives
The sensitisation programme held in the Eleyowo community forms part of NDLEA’s Alternative Development Programme. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, the approach seeks to:
- Discourage illicit farming through community‑led education.
- Promote lawful agricultural practices that improve household incomes.
- Strengthen family support systems by engaging women as influencers.
Julius Oyebode, head of the Alternative Development Unit for NDLEA Ondo State Command, highlighted the programme’s progress during the event:
“We are happy with the efforts of the community. Among the three communities involved in the programme, you are the best so far.”
Why Women Are Central to the Strategy
FLPOIF’s Ondo State coordinator, Aizohi Gbadamosi, explained that targeting women leverages their traditional role in household decision‑making. By informing wives, mothers and sisters about the risks of illicit cultivation and the benefits of alternative crops, the programme aims to:
- Encourage husbands who have abandoned Indian hemp to stay committed to legal farming.
- Reduce financial pressure that might tempt families to revert to illegal activities during lean planting seasons.
- Foster a supportive environment where lawful livelihoods become the norm.
Gbadamosi noted the economic strain many families face when transitioning away from a cash‑generating but illicit activity:
“We know this period is difficult because there is no harvest yet and many families are struggling financially after disengaging from illicit farming. That is why we are appealing to women not to pressure their husbands into returning to the Indian hemp business.”
Early Impact in Eleyowo
The traditional ruler of Eleyowo, Oba Adesina Agunbiade, reported tangible improvements since the programme’s launch:
- Poultry units supplied through the initiative are flourishing.
- Pepper farms are showing healthy growth, providing a steady source of income.
- Community members describe a renewed sense of peace and stability.
Oba Agunbiade urged the state Ministry of Agriculture to expand similar empowerment programmes to other local farmers, emphasizing that sustained support is essential for long‑term success.
Resident Testimonies: From Fear to Hope
Several women shared personal experiences that illustrate the programme’s human impact:
Maria Samuel recalled living in constant anxiety while her husband cultivated Indian hemp:
“Whenever buyers came, they sometimes carried our goods without paying. We were suffering despite the risks. My family lived in fear and we often had to flee whenever we heard that NDLEA officers were around. Today, since we stopped planting Indian hemp, our home is peaceful. We have realised that it is better to have little with peace of mind than plenty with fear and uncertainty.”
Gladys Joseph highlighted the exploitation that often accompanied the illegal trade:
“Since the NDLEA introduced this programme, we no longer live in fears. We appreciate the assistance given to us during this farming season.”
Maryam Umaru expressed gratitude to both FLPOIF and NDLEA, noting that the intervention has restored hope for many families striving to build legitimate livelihoods.
Broader Implications for Rural Development
The collaboration between FLPOIF and NDLEA underscores a growing consensus that sustainable solutions to illicit crop cultivation require more than punitive measures. By empowering women to act as advocates within their families and communities, the programme creates a support system that:
- Encourages the adoption of lawful agricultural practices.
- Improves household income stability.
- Promotes lasting rural development and social cohesion.
As communities like Eleyowo continue to embrace alternative farming opportunities, stakeholders agree that women will remain indispensable partners in the fight against illicit cultivation and the pursuit of a safer, more prosperous society.
For the original report, see Here
