A group, Forum of Igala Journalists (FORIJA) has strongly condemned the recent resolution by the Kogi State House of Assembly (KSHA) to prohibit foreigners from purchasing cashew directly from farmers.
The reaction is contained in a statement issued by Akogu Yusuf on behalf of the group
“This move is a thinly veiled attempt to control the prices of cashew, ultimately impoverishing the already struggling farmers.
“History has shown that the involvement of middlemen in the cashew trade has only served to deny farmers the true value of their labour. The so-called “cashew value chain” claimed by the assembly is nothing but a ruse, designed to further entrench the exploitative practices of middlemen. These individuals purchase cashew from farmers at meager prices, only to sell them at exorbitant rates to foreign buyers.
“We urge the Governor of Kogi State to intervene immediately and put an end to this sinister agenda. The people of Kogi East, who are the primary cashew farmers in the state, deserve better. They have the right to sell their produce directly to buyers, free from the exploitative practices of middlemen.
“FORIJA demands that the Kogi State House of Assembly reconsider its resolution and prioritise the welfare of cashew farmers in the state. We also call on the Governor to take concrete steps to protect the interests of farmers and ensure that they receive fair prices for their produce.
“The people of Kogi State deserve transparency and accountability from their elected representatives. We will continue to monitor the situation and hold those in power accountable for their actions.
“Additionally, lawmakers from Kogi East in the State Assembly are failing their constituents by remaining silent while the economic well-being of their people is being compromised. It’s unacceptable for representatives to sit idly by while the cashew industry, a vital source of livelihood for many in Kogi East, is being undermined.
“The cashew industry has been a lifeline for the people of Kogi East, providing a source of income and economic stability. Any attempt to disrupt the smooth operation of this industry will have far-reaching consequences for the local economy and the people who depend on it.
“It’s shocking that lawmakers from Kogi East have not spoken out against the alleged multiple taxation and extortion faced by cashew farmers and buyers in the state. This lack of advocacy is a dereliction of duty and a betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents.
“The people of Kogi East deserve better representation. They deserve lawmakers who will fight tirelessly to protect their economic interests and promote their well-being. Anything less is unacceptable”, the statement concludes.
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