Youth leaders demand justice as herdsmen kill two men in Nasarawa over grazing dispute

DDM News

Angwan Doka 2, New Nyanya, Nasarawa State, was thrown into mourning this week after two young men were brutally murdered by suspected herdsmen.

Nasarawa refers to a vibrant state located in the north-central region of Nigeria, known for its diverse culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.

It is home to numerous ethnic groups, each contributing to the state’s colorful traditions and varied culinary experiences.

The state capital, Lafia, is a hub of political and economic activities, bustling with daily markets and lively streets.

Nasarawa also features several tourist attractions, including the Farin Ruwa Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Africa, and lush reserves like the Nasarawa Forest Reserve, which offer opportunities for nature exploration and wildlife observation.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) The victims, aged 23 and 24, were reportedly attacked and killed after attempting to stop cows from grazing on mango leaves within their residential compound.

The tragic incident unfolded following a disagreement between the young men and the herders who allowed their cattle to roam into private property.

According to eyewitness reports, the young men had previously warned the herders against allowing their cows to destroy trees and crops near their homes.

When the cattle entered the compound again, the victims confronted the herders in an attempt to drive the animals away.

The confrontation quickly escalated into violence, and the herdsmen allegedly stabbed the two men multiple times with knives.

Both victims died on the spot before any help could reach them.

The attack has drawn outrage from across the country, especially among youth organizations and rights advocates.

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) issued a strong statement condemning the killings as “horrible” and “inhumane.”

President General of CONYL, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, said the incident represents the increasing lawlessness in parts of Nigeria.

He lamented that some individuals now place more value on animals than on human lives.

Ibem called on security agencies to arrest and prosecute the suspects without delay.

He emphasized that justice must be served to reassure the public that human life is sacred.

He warned that failure to take swift action would encourage other criminals to act with impunity.

Ibem also criticized the apparent weakness of law enforcement in rural communities plagued by violence.

He stressed that citizens should not live in fear of being attacked for protecting their property.

This latest incident adds to the rising number of deadly confrontations between herders and local residents in Nigeria.

Nasarawa State, along with neighboring Benue and Plateau states, has witnessed frequent clashes over grazing and land use.

These conflicts often result in loss of lives, destruction of homes, and the displacement of families.

Successive governments have proposed measures such as ranching and grazing routes, but implementation has remained slow and inconsistent.

Security experts and community leaders have continued to urge the government to prioritize rural protection and agricultural safety.

Many affected communities believe that the silence of authorities fuels more attacks and deepens mistrust.

Families of the two slain men are demanding justice and accountability from law enforcement and the state government.

They have called for an independent investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to book.

As of the time of reporting, the police have not issued a formal statement or confirmed any arrests.

Local residents fear for their safety and are calling for the deployment of more security personnel to prevent further violence.

The killings have also sparked renewed debates about regulating open grazing in Nigeria.

Analysts warn that unless meaningful steps are taken, herder-farmer clashes will continue to claim innocent lives.

Nigerians across social media have reacted with anger and grief, calling on the federal government to act decisively.

The deaths of the two young men have become a painful reminder of the fragility of security in many Nigerian communities.

Their families and neighbors now mourn not just their loss, but the slow response to a preventable tragedy.

The nation watches closely, awaiting justice in a case that has once again exposed deep cracks in Nigeria’s internal security system.

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