Management of YSJ Farms Limited has dismissed allegations that it defrauded participants involved in the Bring Back the Youths to Agriculture initiative in Ekiti State, describing the claims as misleading and untrue.

The company’s General Manager, Rotimi Omole, made this clarification while addressing journalists on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti, stating that the allegations misrepresented the structure and objectives of the programme.

Omole explained that the initiative was launched to tackle rising youth unemployment and promote sustainable youth participation in agribusiness, not to exploit beneficiaries.

He clarified that the ₦100,000 paid by pioneer participants in 2024 was a one-time commitment fee approved by the management to ensure seriousness and long-term dedication at the scheme’s formative stage.

According to him, the commitment fee applied only to the initial batch of participants and was never imposed on subsequent intakes. He stressed that new participants are not required to pay any fee, as participation in the programme is now completely free.

“The commitment fee was limited to pioneer beneficiaries and should not be misconstrued as a recurring charge or an attempt to exploit participants,” Omole said.

Addressing claims of non-remuneration, Omole stated that payments under the scheme are strictly performance-based, determined by measurable farm output, regular attendance, and level of engagement.

He noted that the programme operates a results-driven model, where beneficiaries are compensated in proportion to their productivity, adding that differences in payments reflect variations in individual performance rather than favoritism or denial of entitlements.

Omole disclosed that while some participants earned as much as ₦1.5 million, others received lower amounts consistent with their measurable contributions.

He added that the payment structure was designed to promote accountability, diligence, and sustainability, emphasizing that the initiative rewards effort and results rather than mere participation.