Fulani Herdsmen: Leave Benue or face consequences

The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen.

According to reports, Ejeh directed that herders must vacate all farmlands in the area to ensure safe farming activities this planting season.

He issued the directive during a stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the council secretariat in Obagaji.

The meeting gathered traditional rulers, Fulani leaders, youth representatives, and security officials to discuss rising concerns.

Obochi Solomon, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, confirmed the development in a statement to journalists.

Solomon quoted Ejeh as saying farming must continue without fear or disruption across Agatu communities.

Ejeh stressed that agriculture remains the backbone of Agatu’s economy and deserves absolute protection.

He noted that the planting season is critical for food production and local livelihoods.

The Chairman praised the existing peace in the area but warned against any actions that could threaten stability.

“Our farmers must cultivate without disruption. We will ensure a safe environment for them,” Ejeh said firmly.

The statement disclosed that the Ado of the Fulani requested a week’s grace to enable preparations for relocation.

Council authorities agreed to grant the one-week grace period after thorough deliberations.

The CPS reported that Agatu youth leaders pledged to support a peaceful evacuation process.

Mr. Oloche Silas, General Youth Chairman, vowed that youths would avoid violence during the herders’ relocation.

Security officials, including Nigeria Police Force and DSS representatives, applauded the peaceful approach adopted by stakeholders.

They pledged maximum support to ensure a smooth and non-violent evacuation exercise across affected areas.

Chief John Agidani, representing the Och’Agatu, also addressed the meeting.

He praised Chairman Ejeh’s leadership and urged all parties to honor the agreement reached.

Agidani emphasized the importance of maintaining peace for the survival of Agatu communities.

The Council warned that any herder who violates the new directive would face immediate legal action.

Security agencies have been directed to monitor compliance closely during and after the relocation period.

Observers say tensions between farmers and herders have previously led to violent clashes in the region.

Farmers in Agatu suffered devastating losses in past years due to herders’ activities on their lands.

Residents believe that firm action is necessary to prevent a repeat of past tragedies.

Community leaders stressed that the council’s new stance is about protecting livelihoods, not promoting division.

Fulani leaders at the meeting assured the council of their willingness to cooperate peacefully.

They promised to instruct their members to respect the evacuation timeline without resistance.

The Council emphasized that lawful Fulani settlers, who are not encroaching on farms, would not be disturbed.

Ejeh clarified that only those herding on active farmlands were affected by the directive.

The Benue State government has repeatedly stressed the importance of ranching over open grazing.

State authorities argue that ranching reduces conflict between herders and farmers.

Many Agatu residents have called on the state to fully enforce anti-open grazing laws.

Farmers say open grazing endangers crops, livelihoods, and ultimately food security in the region.

The council promised to continue engaging stakeholders in dialogue to sustain peace.

Security agencies pledged to maintain a strong presence across Agatu communities during the critical relocation period.

Agatu indigenes have expressed hope that the council’s decision will restore full farming activities.

Many farmers are already preparing their lands for immediate planting as the rains arrive.

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