FG/CBN Anchor Borrower’s Programme: OYSG Warns Farmers not deal with fraudsters

By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan.
Oyo State Government has cautioned farmers in the state against dealing with suspected fraudsters who are taking advantage of the on – going Federal Government and Central Bank of Nigeria Anchor Borrower’s Programme to defraud them under the guise of registration.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Barrister Oyewole Oyewumi gave the warning during his visit to farmlands of farmers benefiting from the on-going Oyo State Agricultural Initiative (OYSAI) and Savannah Rice Seeds Outgrowership Programme at Oyo West, Ogo – Oluwa , Afijio, Atiba and Iseyin Local Government Areas of the State.
Barrister Oyewumi said findings by the state government have revealed that some unscrupulous people are presently using the programme to extort money from the farmers under the guise of registration.
“It has come to the notice of the Ministry that unscrupulous people are using the programme to extort money from the farmers under the guise of registration, it is in this regard that farmers are being warned to beware of fraudulent people or organizations”he said.
The Commissioner while stating that the Ministry has not appointed any organization or individuals to register farmers on its behalf asked the farmers to contact the  Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development for detailed information about the programme.
The Commissioner maintained that the present administration in the state “is determined to uplift potential farmers in the state by providing them extension services, access to quality seeds and modern farming implements” adding that with these, the state would experience rapid growth in rice and cassava production.
He also emphasized the need to identify productive farmers in various farming associations and form organized group to enhance timely delivery of farm input, saying “we want you to work harmoniously with the extension agents in your localities to enhance improved output.”
Special Adviser to Governor Ajimobi on Agriculture, Professor Adetokunbo Adekunle in his remarks advised the farmers to engage in extensive farming and carry out planting operations at the appropriate time in order to achieve the objectives of the programme.
Chairman, Rice Growers Association, Oyo State Chapter, Mr. Dominic Njoku sought for government’s support as well as the timely delivery of seeds to enhance improved output.